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Gambling Abuse And Addiction |
By:
Ryan D |
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So, how do you know if you or someone you know has a gambling
problem?
First of all it's important to note that compulsive gambling is
a psychological condition that makes people unable to control
their desire to gamble. Many crave the feeling they have when
they gamble and seek this experience on a daily basis, no matter
whether they're on a winning or losing streak. Compulsive
gamblers may start betting small amounts, but sooner or later
start to wager higher bets in order to get the same feelings of
excitement they had when they first started playing. Compulsive
gamblers often feel agitated and restless if they are unable to
gamble and can feel a strong desire to gamble when other aspects
of their lives are weighing them down. Compulsive gamblers may
also believe that gambling is the only way to pay off debts and
keep believing that it's only a matter of time before they hit
the elusive jackpot. Some compulsive gamblers may find
themselves lying to friends and families and in some cases
stealing money or goods to pay for their gambling habit.
Not all compulsive gamblers will exhibit each of these
qualities, but if you recognise just a few of these in yourself
or someone close to you then it could be time to seek help.
Compulsive gambling is treatable and there are a number of
wonderful organisations set up to deal specifically with this
problem. Gamblers Anonymous is probably the most well-known and
widespread and is based on a 12-step program similar to that of
Alcoholics Anonymous. Members meet on a regular basis to share
experiences and listen to each others stories and you will find
that there are literally hundreds of Gamblers Anonymous groups
situated all over the world. Go to the Gamblers Anonymous
website for more information (www.gamblersanonymous.com/ or
check your local newspaper.
Gam-Anon is another well-respected self-help organization whose
motto is "serenity, courage, wisdom. "Their website provides a
solid resource into the issues surrounding compulsive gambling
and meetings are held regularly. (www.gam-anon.org/.
The National Council on Problem Gambling is a government
sponsored organization with branches across the USA. The website
also has a lot of information which you may find useful.
(www.ncpgambling.org/. Other countries will also have their own
groups and organizations which may be publicly or privately run.
Again check your local newspaper or phone book for more
information.
Remember, compulsive gambling is a mental health issue for which
there is help and support. If you feel that gambling is
dominating your life in a way that is harmful or unhealthy, then
perhaps its time to talk to someone about it.
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Article Source: http://www.friendsofvista.org/articles/article25999.html |
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