Gambling refers to any activity wherein an amount of value (typically money) is staked on an event with some element of chance and that may offer prizes; examples include lotteries, keno, bingo, faro keluaran sgp scratchcards dice games horse races or sporting events where this practice takes place. People gamble for prizes that could range from cash winnings to goods and services provided as rewards for their wager.
Gambling behavior occurs when four criteria are fulfilled, including: (1) betting or risking something of value on an event with significant odds for winning or losing; (2) having an impactful result that affects finances or material possessions directly; (3) gambling despite adverse consequences; and (4) not controlling or acknowledging harmful outcomes of their gambling (American Psychiatric Association 2000).
Gambling can have devastating repercussions for family members as well, especially if done together with others from within their immediate circle. Studies suggest a correlation between gambling and mood disorders like depression, anxiety and stress.
Gambling addictions can significantly diminish an individual’s work and social lives, as well as leading to legal complications, including fraud, theft, embezzlement and forgery. Gamblers will often lie to loved ones or therapists in order to conceal their addiction; some might even risk jeopardizing jobs or education to fund their habit.
No matter the difficulty, you can help a loved one overcome gambling addiction. There are various strategies you can employ in helping them, including seeking professional therapy or finding peer recovery programs like Gamblers Anonymous that provide peer support groups for members to find sobriety; such groups require members to find a sponsor – an experienced former gambler with sobriety experience as guidance – who will provide assistance during recovery.
Financial support may also be provided if required, though be wary to set boundaries when managing their money so as to not become co-dependent or enablers of them. You can help manage their emotions through emotional and mental support. Help them access treatment for any underlying mental health conditions, as these issues are more likely to lead to or worsen a gambling problem. If they find themselves overwhelmed with debt, StepChange provides free debt advice. Furthermore, encourage them to strengthen their support network and explore non-gambling activities such as joining a book club, sports team or volunteering for charity. By doing this, they will be freed to focus on building meaningful relationships and other forms of fulfillment instead of gambling. Over time, healthy behaviors will replace gambling urges. But this process may take time – be patient! Keep reminding yourself that other people have succeeded at combatting this disorder!