If your loved one has a gambling addiction, you may find yourself in a difficult position. Dealing with the addiction can be difficult, and if you are feeling guilty and ashamed, reaching out for support can help you realize that you are not alone. Helping your loved one set boundaries in managing money is an important part of the process, as it will help the gambler stay accountable and prevent relapse. Always remember that your first responsibility when it comes to family finances is to ensure your safety and that of your loved one.
Problem gamblers are prone to depression
Recent studies show that problem gambling is linked to depression and anxiety disorders. In fact, women are three times more likely than men to develop these disorders. Women also report that gambling helps them cope with negative emotions. The findings are alarming, because it may be a major contributor to the development of gambling addiction. However, a deeper look at the causes of problem gambling and the associated disorders is necessary to understand how it develops.
Stress
Studies have shown that financial stress is an often overlooked aspect of gambling, and there are numerous ways in which this activity can be beneficial for your overall health. According to a recent study, the social costs of gambling in Victoria are around $7 billion a year. And while the activity is an easy way to get high-speed money, it can also cause stress and damage your wellbeing. It is a known fact that many people in Australia are struggling financially and the increased incidence of gambling is affecting their quality of life.
Anxiety
Anxiety about gambling is a common occurrence among problem gamblers. This anxiety may influence the clinical presentation of their gambling problems. Moreover, anxiety may act as a powerful motivating factor in gambling behaviors. Research on addictions suggests that gambling is an adaptation of an anxiety-coping mechanism. However, relief of anxiety from gambling is often short-lived and stronger than before, creating a vicious cycle. Anxiety about gambling can also be associated with higher risk of addiction among problematic gamblers.
Alcoholism
An alcoholic with a gambling problem will most likely have a gambling problem as well. Alcoholism and gambling are often co-occurring disorders and can be treated at the same time. Both disorders cause the addict to become more likely to gamble than they otherwise would be. It is important to admit that alcohol and gambling are interdependent problems and seek help as soon as possible. This article will explore the connection between alcoholism and gambling and how you can treat both conditions at the same time.
Pathological gambling
Psychiatric conditions often lead to a person developing pathological gambling. The DSM-IV defines pathological gambling as a disorder characterized by compulsive behavior. Pathological gamblers are likely to exhibit certain brain changes similar to those seen in alcoholics and drug addicts. Recent studies have revealed that some pathological gamblers experience lower levels of a chemical called norepinephrine, which is produced during high-stress situations and moments of thrill. They may be gambling to make up for this lack of norepinephrine. Moreover, they might be influenced by the chemical serotonin.