Gambling involves risking something of value, usually money, on an event that is based on chance and has the potential to produce a positive outcome. It may be done through lottery tickets, sports events, pokies, cards, online gambling or other games. It is often a social activity and can be very addictive. There is a national help line and many clinics and treatment centres for people with a gambling addiction. Treatment includes counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT examines unhealthy beliefs about betting such as the illusion of control, irrational beliefs or the gambler’s fallacy, which all contribute to compulsive gambling.
Problem gambling affects a person’s finances, work performance, relationships and mental health. It can also harm their family, friends and community. The most important step is to recognise that there is a problem, and then get help. Symptoms of gambling disorder include chasing losses, lying to loved ones and hiding evidence of gambling.
There are ways to help a loved one break the gambling habit, but it’s essential to remember that they might not be ready for change. You can encourage them to seek treatment, join a support group and practice self-care to cope with stress and emotional challenges.
You can offer support by encouraging them to create a budget and limit their financial resources. You can also encourage them to seek professional financial advice, so they can make informed decisions about their money. You can also provide them with healthy coping strategies, like exercise and relaxation techniques.
Using these strategies can help them overcome their addiction and develop a stronger sense of self-worth. This will also give them the confidence to spend their money wisely. In addition, it is important to strengthen their social network and encourage them to participate in activities that are not based on gambling, such as hobbies, sports and educational opportunities.
It is also important to help them manage their finances responsibly and reduce debt. For example, you can encourage them to use credit cards sparingly, put someone else in charge of their finances, close gambling accounts and keep only a small amount of cash with them. It is also helpful to encourage them to seek support from friends and family, and a therapist who specialises in gambling addiction.
A key element of recovery is identifying what triggers your loved one to gamble. You can then help them avoid those triggers by changing their environment. For instance, if their route to and from work goes past a casino, you can encourage them to take another route. You can also encourage them to join a support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is a 12-step program modelled on Alcoholics Anonymous. The group helps members learn how to cope with cravings, identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping skills. Moreover, they can find a mentor in the group who has successfully overcome gambling problems. You can also suggest that they visit a psychiatrist who specializes in gambling addiction.