Addictions are not just substances; they are physical actions as well. While gambling addictions are only recently becoming recognized by medical professionals, you have most likely seen the destruction and hold it can take on an individual suffering from it. When a loved one has a gambling addiction they are withdrawn, financially insecure, and often satisfying a need with something other than what they psychologically require. Most individuals feel guilty and ashamed, and involve themselves with other high-risk behaviors that over time can create long-term damage if it is not stopped. Therefore, if you think your loved one is suffering from a gambling addiction, you need to get them help before it is too late.
Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction involves a psychological dependency on the “rush” or euphoric feeling a person gets while gambling. This obsession typically starts out minor and slowly progresses into compulsive behaviors. Over time, this addiction can be just as serious and deadly as that of regular drug or alcohol addictions and if your loved one has suffered from a gambling addiction for some time, you already know this.
Gambling Addiction Signs and Symptoms
If you are unsure whether or not your loved one is suffering from a gambling addiction, consider a few of these common signs and symptoms. While not all individuals suffering from these are suffering from a serious addiction issue, they can be indicators of a more serious problem starting to occur:
- Your loved one has a preoccupation with gambling
- Your loved one needs to gamble throughout the day
- Your loved one cannot stop their gambling behavior
- After losing from a recent gambling activity your loved one will rerun to gambling the next day to try and recover
- Excessive lying
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Excessive debt
- Loss of serious relationships, jobs, or housing
Gambling Addiction Intervention
In order for your loved one to stop, they need to recognize the problem. In most cases your loved one already knows he or she has a problem, only they are not strong enough to admit it to themselves or others. With a gambling addiction intervention from LifeLine, you can be given the tools and information you need to provide your loved ones with a meaningful and successful intervention that will encourage them to seek treatment and stop their destructive behavior.
Gambling Addiction Treatment
Treatment for gambling addiction is not that much different from regular addictions. Individuals will go through multiple counseling sessions, join support groups and perhaps take on medication if the cause of their addiction was from underlying anxiety or depressive disorder.
The first step in helping your loved ones receive the treatment they need is helping them admit they need it. With LifeLine Intervention you can find the strength to confront your loved one and help them get on the road to recovery. Contact a representative today by calling 866-384-8411 now.