Gambling Problems #1.

Problem Gambling is not something that stays in Vegas!

 The State of California recently launched an intensive training program to assist mental health professionals in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective treatment to people who gamble excessively and who experience detrimental outcomes. 

Data shows that anyone can develop a problem with gambling.  The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that one of every five college students who plays poker regularly will develop an addiction!  Gambling addictions have been found among people from all backgrounds and walks-of-life, including high school students as well as blue-collar and white-collar workers.  No occupations are exempt from developing a gambling problem.  There are grocers, electricians, educators and mental health professionals who sometimes gamble to excess. 

 A few warning signs of Problem Gambling include:

• Gambling to forget problems or worries.

• Having blocks of time that are unaccounted for.

• Lying about gambling outings.

• Being angry when asked about mysterious spending.

• Frequent out-of-town trips.

• Taking trips with open-ended returns (to account for possible winning or losing streaks).

• Making bets with money needed for basic life needs such as rent, mortgage or retirement.

 

Some people can engage in low-risk gambling without developing a problem.  Low-risk gamblers are always gambling for fun and never to make money. 

Problem gambling is an addiction, just like alcohol addiction and should be treated by a professional.  The consequences of not addressing a problem with gambling can be severe, and may include the loss of spouses, houses and life savings.

If you think you may have a gambling problem, or if someone close to you thinks so, find out how to develop the self-control you need to break your addictive habit. 

Don’t leave your future to the roll of the dice.  Contact a therapist today.