Responsible gambling means knowing the odds and knowing when to quit. It also means budgeting your gambling as an expense and not a source of income. Understanding why you gamble can help you change your behavior. For instance, you might not have any idea that gambling is bad for your health. Understanding the reasons you gamble is essential for breaking the cycle of compulsive gambling. Here are a few tips. Read on to learn about the health risks of gambling.
Health consequences of gambling
The consequences of gambling on health can range from diminished quality of life to self-harm. Problem gamblers are at high risk of suicide, as a Swedish registry study showed that their chances of suicide were 15.1 times higher than the general population. This increased risk was attributed to both completed suicides and suicide attempts. The number of people with gambling problems is estimated to be approximately ten thousand. Other harmful effects of gambling include increased financial and personal risks, and even intimate partner violence.
The costs of gambling are high, both directly and indirectly. Problem gambling causes high health costs, which are largely intangible. However, the direct costs of treatment and prevention are relatively low, and a stronger focus on prevention could significantly reduce the negative impacts of problem gambling. To reduce these costs, more funding is needed to prevent and treat problem gambling. This is especially important when it comes to governments and employers. Investing in these programs is crucial, as it can save them a lot of money and stress.
Symptoms of compulsive gambling
A person suffering from compulsive gambling may have trouble focusing on anything else in life. This can make their gambling more intense and stressful, leading to other negative consequences. Fortunately, there are ways to recognize compulsive gambling symptoms, such as losing control and lying about their gambling activities. In addition to the negative consequences of gambling, compulsive gamblers may resort to other means, such as theft and fraud, in order to support their habit.
If you suspect a loved one of compulsive gambling, the best place to begin is by taking a look at your own gambling habits. It’s likely you’ve noticed signs of compulsive gambling, including time spent with family and friends, stealing money from the family, and missing work because of it. Oftentimes, compulsive gamblers conceal their debts or deny their gambling behaviors. Moreover, they may also experience substance abuse or alcohol abuse. According to a National Institutes of Health study, nearly half of people with compulsive gambling also engage in some type of substance abuse.
Treatment options
There are several treatment options for gambling addiction. One of these is residential addiction treatment, which is often recommended for people who are unable to stop gambling on their own. The purpose of residential treatment is to help an individual understand the impact of gambling on their lives, learn better coping mechanisms, and develop healthier behaviors. These options may not be suitable for everyone, but they may be a good option for someone who is experiencing problems with their gambling habits.
The first step in treatment is to see a mental health professional. The primary care physician can help you diagnose whether you have a gambling addiction and refer you to an appropriate mental health professional. Mental health professionals often specialize in treating addictions, including gambling. They can offer advice and help to overcome the addiction. This includes working closely with a gambling addiction specialist. Eventually, the addiction will subside and you can return to your normal life.