Problem gambling can affect anyone. Research shows that problem gambling is associated with health problems not related to gambling, such as depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. CBT, or cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help people combat this problem. Behavioral therapy helps individuals overcome their addiction to gambling and lead a healthy life. But there are many risks associated with gambling. Here are some to watch out for:
Problem gambling is a public health issue
The costs of problem gambling are high for the community and for the individual. The cost of lost productivity for a community ranges from US$6 million to $39 million. In 2014, absenteeism related to problem gambling cost the Victoria government $46.2 million. Gambling-related crime cost the community $22.5 million and suicide caused by problem gambling took lives. In addition, problem gambling is associated with an increased risk of homicide and sexual assault, and it costs society an estimated $28 million annually.
It is associated with nongambling health problems
It is a well-known fact that gambling can cause stress, but did you know that it can also be harmful? According to recent research, it is linked with a wide range of nongambling health problems. Specifically, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and physical health problems. The same study found that gambling can even lead to employment problems, but the reasons for these are unclear. In addition, there are a number of other factors that can make a person prone to gambling problems.
It can happen to anyone
Problem gambling can happen to anybody. It knows no age, gender, or ethnicity. And it doesn’t care whether or not you make enough money to cover your gambling debts. It can take many forms, from low-stakes games to high-stakes gambling. Here’s how to tell if you’re suffering from problem gambling. Here are a few of the signs you should look for:
It can be treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy
A wide range of cognitive-behavioral techniques have been developed to treat pathological gambling. Depending on the client’s needs and goals, these interventions may be individual or group-based. During these sessions, the therapist may use various techniques, including role-playing, challenge of existing beliefs, and feedback. The therapy is generally a short, eight-to-fifteen-session process that focuses on changing the client’s thinking and behavior.
It can be triggered by drugs or alcohol
Triggers are any external event that evokes a negative emotion. These can be people, scents, places, or even harmful substances. They may even be associated with a person’s past substance abuse. Although external triggers are not the cause of drug use, they can lead to a relapse. Triggers are very powerful and can be very hard to disassociate from past substance abuse.