Helping Someone With a Gambling Problem
Gambling is the wagering of something of value (e.g., money or property) on a random event with the intent of winning something else of value. Instances of strategy are discounted in this definition of gambling, which is distinct from games of chance and sports betting. Several different types of gambling exist, including casino games, lotteries, and horse racing. Some of these activities are legal in some jurisdictions and are regulated, while others are illegal or unregulated. In any form, the primary determinants of gambling risk are the amount of money wagered, the frequency and size of wins and losses, and the perceived probability of a win.
Most people gamble for entertainment, to socialize, to relieve boredom, or to feel a rush. In addition, some people use it to help solve their problems or make up for their lack of success in other areas. The media promotes gambling as fun, exciting, and glamorous, and some people believe that if they only won enough money, they could change their lives for the better. Some people also gamble to avoid dealing with unpleasant emotions or problems, such as grief, financial difficulties, depression, or loneliness.
Although a person may be able to control their urges to gamble for a short time, it can be very difficult to stop. There are several strategies that can be used to help someone with a problem with gambling:
Encourage them to seek help for their addiction. Regardless of whether they are addicted to poker, slots, or sports betting, there are effective treatments available. Talk with them about the options and find out what is available in their area.
Offer to help them establish healthy spending habits. It is important to help someone with a gambling problem set limits for how much money they can spend and limit their access to credit cards and online betting sites. This will help them break the vicious cycle of losing and then trying to recover by resuming gambling.
If the individual has a support network, encourage them to reach out to it. This may include family and friends, as well as a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous. These groups are modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous and can provide support and guidance in managing an addiction to gambling.
If the person does not have a supportive network, it is important to help them develop new coping skills for unpleasant feelings and boredom. They can try exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, taking up a hobby, or practicing relaxation techniques. If they are bored with work, they can volunteer or take on a new project. If they have financial problems, they can seek counseling or consider starting a savings plan. In any case, it is essential to communicate openly and honestly with them about their gambling problem. The more they open up, the more likely they will be to get the help they need. This will also help them to realize that they are not alone in their struggle with gambling problems.