Gambling addiction is identified as a process addiction because it does not involve addiction to a substance like drugs or alcohol. Instead, it involves an obsessive and compulsive behaviour that can begin with an innocent attempt at winning and end with a downward spiral into financial, mental and even physical ruin. Rehabilitation for gambling, as in the case of rehabilitation for drugs and alcohol, involves both individual and group counselling, group therapy, life skills workshops and other factors which collectively help addicts to live and operate functionally in a world without the uncontrollable urge to gamble.
One of the most dangerous misconceptions about gambling addiction, is that it involves slot machines, roulette wheels and poker games. In fact, gambling addiction can manifest in a variety of other forms, including an addiction to playing the lottery, betting on horses or even compulsively entering raffles.
One of the most obvious symptoms of gambling addiction is financial devastation. Gambling addicts may find themselves unable to refrain from their compulsive behaviour, even when they cannot afford to maintain the habit. Addicts who end up at a rehab, often end up entering treatment because they have reached a personal rock-bottom. At the lowest point in a gambling addict’s life, financial ruin may very well be a reality but there are a myriad of other symptoms to look out for. Anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts are just some of the emotional symptoms of gambling addiction. Chasing the next high in the form of a win, is the addict’s only goal, and in the process of reaching that goal, relationships can be destroyed, their health can be severely compromised and mentally, it becomes increasingly more difficult to maintain a lifestyle that is ultimately not sustainable.
What rehabilitation does, is interrupt the downward spiral of addiction. It is widely understood that while gambling addiction cannot be “cured” as such, it can be arrested and recovery is then possible. Essentially, gambling rehab is the beginning of a lifelong process that involves breaking negative patterns, challenging one’s natural programming and finding new ways to embrace life on its own terms. At Crossroads Recovery Centres, we encourage gambling addicts to become a part of the Gamblers’ Anonymous programme of recovery, which includes going to meetings and working the 12 steps. Although the thought of committing to recovery may seem daunting, addicts are encouraged to take things one day at a time, to connect with fellow addicts who share the same experience and to actively pursue a life of purpose and long-lasting serenity.
If you or a loved one is in search of help for gambling addiction, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.
