How to Help Someone With Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction is a complex problem that affects the brain. People who have this disorder can’t control their urges and spend more time gambling than they should, which has a negative impact on the person’s life. This is particularly true if they are losing money or their gambling is causing financial, personal and family difficulties.

The best way to help someone with gambling addiction is to support them and encourage them to seek treatment. This may involve a call to a gambling hotline or a meeting with a mental health professional or a group like Gamblers Anonymous. Alternatively, you might encourage them to take up exercise or other hobbies, work on improving their relationships and finances, and start journaling about their experience.

It’s important to remember that it takes a long time for the brain to change in recovery from any addiction. Therefore, it’s vital that you avoid putting too much pressure on your loved one to quit. If they’re struggling, remind them that you love them and are there to support them.

It’s also helpful to identify the triggers for your behaviour and reduce exposure to them, such as staying away from casinos or sports events. It’s also worth exploring the different therapy options that are available for gambling addiction, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT helps to change the negative beliefs and thoughts that lead to gambling addiction, such as believing you’re more likely to win than lose or thinking that certain rituals can bring luck.