Dealing with a loved one’s excessive gambling can be stressful and overwhelming. Dealing with their addiction can be embarrassing, so it is important to reach out for help if you feel like you’re the only one struggling with gambling. One way to help your loved one stay accountable and stay away from the casino is to establish firm rules about how they handle family finances. While it can seem unfair to hold a loved one responsible for their own finances, it is the first responsibility that each of you has, and setting limits can help your loved one stay on track and prevent a relapse.
Problems associated with excessive gambling
The Productivity Commission of Australia has examined the effects of gambling on society, and has concluded that 80 to 85 percent of all social problems are linked to excessive gambling. While the study focused on Australia, Hong Kong, and other countries, its conclusions apply equally to the United States. It is important that funding be allocated for programs to prevent and minimize problems associated with gambling. There are several ways to educate students about the harmful effects of excessive gambling, and many university campuses have already implemented a variety of measures to curb the problem.
The HKJC contributes to initiatives aimed at helping people who engage in excessive gambling. A large portion of the HKJC’s revenue is dedicated to charitable causes and taxation, so it can be argued that this gambling industry is contributing to society in ways that may not be obvious. Similarly, illegal gambling operators make little direct contribution to taxation and aren’t subject to the same safeguards as the legal sector.
Ways to stop excessive gambling
Experiencing an addiction to excessive gambling can be a devastating experience. Not only can it ruin your finances and personal relationships, it can also cause immense stress in your life. The good news is that there are many ways to stop excessive gambling. To start, identify your triggers and look for ways to change your habits. If you can’t find ways to stop gambling by yourself, try reaching out to a support group. Many groups offer free counselling and support.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that can help break negative thinking patterns. Typically, it is carried out individually or in a group, with several therapists using role-playing to challenge a person’s beliefs. CBT can last from eight to 15 sessions and aim to help individuals learn how to cope with stressful situations. It can also help people cope with the negative effects of gambling.
Signs of pathological gambling
If you are having trouble controlling your gambling, it may be time to consider whether you’re a victim of pathological gambling. This kind of behavior can have devastating consequences and affect your entire life. Pathological gambling is not an addiction to the games themselves, but rather a dysfunctional pattern of gambling behaviors. Pathological gamblers may try to stop but simply find it difficult to do so. Pathological gamblers must wager more money in order to get the same rush of excitement. These behaviors may result in severe withdrawal symptoms.
While pathological gamblers tend to be more likely to be women, men are less likely to seek counseling than their female counterparts. However, a recent study found that 50 percent of pathological gamblers’ children are also pathological gamblers. However, in addition to counseling, these individuals often go to casinos and gamble without thinking about their consequences. So, if you notice one or more of these behaviors in your loved one, it’s probably time to take action.