How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction is an unhealthy form of addiction that can negatively impact your health, relationships, finances and social life. There are ways to overcome this disorder and get on the road to recovery.

If you feel you may be suffering from a gambling addiction, seek help as soon as possible. You can begin by reaching out to friends and family. They can provide you with support, and a referral to an addiction professional.

You can also look for self-help groups to gain insight into the reasons behind your addiction. Cognitive behavioral therapy, a technique used by professionals, helps people recognize and change unwanted thought patterns and behaviors.

A program called Gamblers Anonymous, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, provides a 12-step recovery process. Choosing a sponsor, and going through the steps of the program, can provide you with guidance and support.

An inpatient treatment facility is often recommended for serious cases. These programs may last from 30 days to a year. During this time, the patient will learn about the causes of their addiction and develop coping skills.

Cognitive behavioural therapy is another effective treatment for gambling addiction. This treatment method focuses on changing how you think about gambling and other self-defeating behaviors. It can help reduce the urge to gamble and prevent relapse.

Cognitive therapy may include impulse control training, behavioural therapy and family therapy. These techniques help you overcome the mental obstacles that make it difficult to stop gambling.

If you’re a loved one of a gambling addict, you must let them feel the pain they are experiencing. If you are not willing to allow them to, they will continue to be addicted.