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Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is a progressive disorder in which an individual has a psychological preoccupation and urge to gamble. This results in excessive gambling, the outcome of which is the loss of time, money, and self-esteem. The gambling can progress to a point at which it compromises, disrupts, and ultimately destroys the gambler's personal life, family relationships, and vocational pursuits. These problems in turn lead to intensification of the gambling behavior. The principle features of problem gambling are emotional dependence on gambling, loss of control, and interference with normal functioning.

Just as some people can become addicted to drugs and alcohol, it is possible for a person to become obsessed with an uncontrollable urge to gamble. The impact of this addiction is much greater than the obvious financial losses that can result from repeated gambling. The long-term result is a steady deterioration of the mental and physical health of both the gambler and their family.

Often referred to as the "hidden addiction", problem gambling is not as easily detected as alcoholism or substance abuse. There are warning signs, however, that may indicate when a person is crossing the line from the fun of social gambling to the pain of problem gambling. These include:

Losing time from work or school due to gambling
Repeated failed attempts to stop or control the gambling
Lying about the amount of time and money spent on gambling
Gambling to escape from life's problems
Gambling for increasing amounts of time or with increasing amounts of money
Gambling more money in an attempt to win back losses (chasing)
Neglecting the care of one's self or family due to gambling
Relying on loans or "bailouts" from family or friends to meet financial obligations
Feelings of helplessness and depression, or thoughts of suicide

Surprisingly, problem gamblers are very often the last ones to realize what is happening to them in spite of mounting consequences and increasing emotional impact. They may attribute their difficulties to a mere financial problem or believe they are just not being "smart" enough when they gamble. The fantasy that one more big win will solve the financial problems and return everything to normal drives them on to gamble even harder.

Counseling with Carolyn will address how to stop the gambling behavior and learn new coping skills to prevent a return to gambling in the future. She will also screen for other problems, such as substance abuse, anxiety, or depression.