In the United States alone, approximately 2 million adults have a severe gambling addiction, and 4 to 6 million adults have mild to moderate problems. It’s important to remember that gambling addiction can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
If you’re concerned that you or a loved one could have a gambling addiction, it’s best to take a step back and learn more about this type of addiction. Knowing the signs of a gambling addiction can help you identify these behaviors and get the treatment you need to live a healthy life.
In this guide, you’ll learn about five signs of a gambling addiction you need to watch out for.
1. Lying About Gambling Habits
Lying to hide a gambling problem is a telltale sign you must be aware of. If you find yourself or a loved one attempting to conceal gambling by hiding bank statements or receipts, you need to pay attention.
Key behaviors you’ll notice include lying and saying you’re working late, but in reality, you’re spending the evening gambling.
2. Not Being Able to Stop Gambling
It’s essential to realize that any addiction, including gambling, means that a person cannot stop or even control their behavior.
You can tell the difference when you look at experienced poker players and gamblers who can walk away when they know they’ve hit their spending limit. When gambling turns compulsive, you’re powerless to stop and lose control over the time and money you’re spending.
3. Gambling Until You Have No Money Left
Another significant sign you have gambling issues is gambling to the point that you have no money left. You’ll also find yourself trying to borrow money from other people or even engaging in criminal activities to finance your gambling habits.
Overall, compulsive gambling leads you to gamble your money and other people’s money until the problem gets to a breaking point where you’re forced to stop.
4. Denial of Your Gambling Habits
Denial is a significant sign of addiction that many people overlook, and because of this, they don’t seek the gambling treatment they need.
No matter what the addiction is, the first step in any addiction treatment program is admitting you have a problem. If gambling has taken over your life and finances, and you still won’t admit that it’s become a problem, then you’re in a state of denial.
5. Behavioral Symptoms
A gambling disorder is a condition that involves continued gambling behaviors that can significantly affect your mental health, finances, and relationships. Gambling behaviors affect your brain’s reward center like other addictions, causing you to experience problems with impulse control.
People who gamble experience strong emotions such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Isolating themselves
- Suicidal tendencies
In addition, when you have a gambling addiction, you’re at higher risk for mood and anxiety disorders. This is why when you go to a rehab facility, you’ll also receive treatment for co-occurring disorders like PTSD or depression.
Knowing the Signs of a Gambling Addiction
Knowing more about the signs of a gambling addiction can help you identify these signs in yourself or a loved one.
If you need help dealing with a gambling addiction in Dover, NJ, you can turn to Excel Treatment Center. We realize how a gambling addiction can take over your life and will help you overcome your addiction for good.
We’ll provide you with a personalized level of care and create a custom treatment plan that meets your needs. We also offer a comfortable and positive environment that will allow you to recover successfully.
Make sure you contact us today to start the treatment process.
Call (877) 331-4114 and talk to an expert to learn more about medically assisted detox, one-on-one therapy, family support, and relapse prevention programs.
Important Resources
Can I Keep My Job and Go to Day Treatment?
Realizing that you might need treatment for your addiction is a huge step in the right direction. However, many fear their life will change when they take that first step, including potentially losing their job. This is a valid concern; however, at Excel Treatment Center, we want you to know that you have options.
How Can I Support a Loved One Struggling With Addition?
Addiction not only affects those struggling with the addiction but also affects the friends and family around them. It can be just as challenging to support them as it is to watch them in active addiction. Learning to create a loving, supportive space without enabling can be difficult, but it is crucial to develop this space to help your loved ones through their recovery.
The Importance of Family Participation During Treatment
Addiction is a disease that affects the whole family. Family members often feel the impact of addiction in a very real way, which can lead to feelings of anger, resentment, and frustration. While these emotions are natural, they can also be detrimental to one’s treatment if left unchecked.