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boiMAG.com "Gambling Article"
GAMBLING ADDICTION
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by: Dr. Charla Waxman BS, MBA, EdD Director of Business Development Lake Behavioral Hospital
Uncontrolled gambling is a powerful addiction. As do most addictions, gambling affects not just the person struggling with the behavior, but family and friends as well. Gambling can be the cause of mental illnesses like depression and anxiety, and has led to suicidal ideation, attempts and completion of the act. As mounting debts, job loss, deceit and criminal behavior become lifestyle essentials for the gambler, relationships fall apart and support diminishes. The gambler enters a world where wanting to quit and promises made to do so are superseded by the extreme urge to make the next bet.
With that cycle in place, the gambler’s view of his/her potential and value is reduced. Many times the person with the addiction loses hope and no matter how damaging the behavior, no matter the losses, the behavior is compulsive, driven and unstoppable. Feelings of selfhate, frustration, anxiety and depression become every day feelings.
An interesting fact about gambling addiction that is different from other kinds of addictions is that, at some point, there will be a sudden reward… a pay out of money that makes the addicted person feel that all is right with the world and that the addiction might just pay off. Even an occasional win will fuel the need to pursue the addiction and test the luck. The cycle is perpetuated and seems irresistible.
Most people don’t quit any addiction without support. Gambling Addiction Anonymous programs, intensive outpatient or partial hospital programs can be helpful. Gambling is often a tandem addiction and many of those addicted to gambling also need substance abuse support. Calling 1-800 GAMBLER is one way to get started getting the help needed.
Connecting to a local behavioral health hospital like Lake Behavioral Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois can be an in-person way to receive a free assessment to determine the best level of care. Calling 1-855-990-1900 will get someone the help they need 24/7/365.
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