Can Gambling Addiction Be Cured?
Gambling addiction, also known as pathological gambling, is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the negative consequences on a person’s life.
So, can gambling addiction be cured? In order to answer this question effectively, it’s important to understand the nature of gambling addiction, the difference between a cure and treatment, and the various methods of treating pathological gambling.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction is a behavioral disorder that involves the excessive and uncontrollable urge to gamble. It is classified as an impulse control disorder and is often associated with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. People with gambling addiction may experience a range of negative consequences due to their disorder, including financial problems, relationship issues, and job loss.
Additionally, like many other behavioral addictions, gambling addiction has signs and symptoms that mirror those of someone dealing with a substance addiction, such as:
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Lying
- Guilt and shame
- Inability to resist impulses
- Obsessive thoughts about gambling
- Missing work or social obligations
- Restlessness or irritability if they try to stop
- Needing to “increase” the amount of money or frequency of gambling to “feel the rush”
The exact cause of gambling addiction is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Although many individuals with a gambling addiction are typically reliable and responsible, certain factors can influence significant changes in their behavior. Some examples might include:
- Loneliness
- Retirement
- Work-related stress
- Traumatic circumstances
- Depression or anxiety
- Other addictions
- Changes in circumstance, such as new, sudden wealth or circles of influence
People dealing with another addiction may be more susceptible to developing gambling addiction, as well as those who have a family history of addiction and/or mental illness.
Cure vs. Treatment: What’s the Difference?
Before we delve into treating gambling addiction, it's important to understand the difference between cure and treatment. A “cure” refers to a complete and permanent resolution of a disease or disorder, while “treatment” refers to the management and mitigation of symptoms.
In the case of addiction, there is no known cure. However, it is possible to treat addictions and manage their symptoms effectively. Individuals can overcome their addiction and maintain long-term recovery.
For many, treatment may be more intense and involved in the beginning, with many individuals requiring inpatient treatment. What someone learns in this kind of treatment can be applied once they leave the facilities to help them manage their symptoms. For some, this doesn’t take much conscious thought, though others may have to make more drastic changes.
Gambling Addiction Can Be Treated
According to the North American Foundation for Gambling Addiction Help, nearly 10 million adults in the US have a gambling addiction. While there is no cure for gambling addiction, it can be effectively treated.
The good news is that there are various treatment options available for people struggling with gambling addiction. These methods often include a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups and, sometimes, addressing co-occurring disorders.
How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction
Overcoming a gambling addiction can be a challenging process, but it is possible with the right treatment and support. It’s important to find a holistic-focused behavioral addiction program that can help develop a treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of an individual.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that has been proven effective in treating gambling addiction. It focuses on identifying the negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to gambling addiction and replacing them with positive ones.
CBT helps individuals develop coping skills and strategies to manage their gambling urges and prevent relapse. It also addresses underlying mental health conditions that may be contributing to the addiction, such as depression or anxiety.
Support Groups
Support groups provide a supportive environment for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. These groups offer a sense of community and understanding, and individuals can share their experiences and receive encouragement and support from others who have gone through similar struggles.
Support groups can also provide a structured approach to recovery, with regular meetings and a 12-step program. Many find that support groups are an essential part of their recovery process.
Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders
Many individuals with gambling addiction also have co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. Addressing these underlying conditions is crucial in treating gambling addiction effectively.
Comprehensive treatment programs that address co-occurring disorders can help individuals achieve long-term recovery. These programs may include medication management, and individual and group therapy.
Gambling Treatment at Sequoia
Here at Sequoia, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for those struggling with gambling addiction. Our programs are designed to address the unique needs of each individual and provide them with the support and resources they need to achieve long-term recovery.
Our team of experienced professionals includes therapists, psychiatrists, and addiction specialists, who work together to provide individualized treatment plans that address co-occurring disorders and provide effective coping strategies for managing gambling urges.
In addition to individual therapy and support groups, we offer a range of holistic therapies such as somatic experiencing, emotional freedom techniques (EFT), and recreational therapy to help individuals achieve balance and wellness in their recovery journey.
Gambling addiction is a serious mental health disorder that can have a significant impact on an individual's life. While there is no known cure for the disorder, it is treatable with the right methods and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, don’t hesitate to give us a call today.