The Facts About Compulsive Gambling. Is It Treatable?
Compulsive gambling is an illness, progressive in its nature, which can never be cured, but can be arrested. Compulsive Gamblers defined Compulsive Gambling as an urge or addiction to gamble in spite of a desire to stop or harmful or negative consequences. Very often compulsive gambling is referred to as the "hidden illness" because there are no physical or visual symptoms. Unlike alcoholism, compulsive gambling is a "drugless" addiction, although gamblers describe the sensations they experience as being quite similar to those experienced by chemically dependent persons.
Gambling Gambling is any time you bet money or place something of value at risk in hopes of winning something of greater value. Gambling becomes a problem anytime it negatively affects any aspect of your life. Gambling debts may compromise one's financial stability, cause problems with family and work, and prompt some individuals to engage in illegal activities, including espionage, as a means of covering their losses. Gambling can indeed become a life-threatening disease.
Money However, as losses increase and self-esteem is jeopardized, the gambler borrows money to "invest" in gambling in hopes of breaking even. The need arises to hide new losses and borrow more money to make up the difference. Finally, desperation occurs as the gambler becomes obsessed with getting even to cover stolen money, withdrawals from family bank accounts and secret loans. The more money borrowed, the greater the commitment to more gambling as the only possible means of gaining enough money to pay off the debt.
Anonymous "Compulsive gambling is an illness, progressive in nature, which can never be cured, but can be arrested," according to the Website Gamblers Anonymous. A wide range of programs exist, ranging from Gamblers Anonymous to inpatient treatment centers. 12 step programs, such as the one offered by Gamblers Anonymous, work well for many people. But there is anonymous professional help available right now for anyone who asks.
Information Information Clearinghouse Statewide toll-free Helpline and information services through 1-8OO-GAMBLER or the premier website at www. GAM-ANON provides information and help for the family members or friends of compulsive gamblers. 24-hour Confidential HelpLine1- 888-ADMIT-IT(1-888-236-4848) If you are seeking information about problem gambling, you can call the HelpLine or post a message. Please remember that this information should not substitute for a visit or a consultation with a health care provider.
Conclusion The evidence is conclusive that problem and compulsive gambling is highly correlated with substance use/abuse, criminal behavior and criminal involvement. Compulsive gambling is an illness, progressive in its nature, which can never be cured, but can be arrested. The use of guided meditations for relaxation and to control compulsive gambling is becoming more widespread. The good news is that compulsive gambling is treatable for those who seek help.
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