Help For Gambling Problems
Despite its popularity, gambling can be a very addictive activity. You should know what you’re getting into before you start betting. This will prevent you from losing money and making a poor decision. If you do become addicted, you can seek help. There are a number of organisations that offer counselling for people with gambling problems. Some of them have a 24-hour helpline. The National Helpline is 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Some people may think that gambling is a way to unwind. It can be a fun social experience, but it can also be an addictive one. This can lead to financial problems and even strained relationships. It’s important to understand the risks involved in gambling and the consequences of it.
In addition to causing financial problems, gambling can cause emotional distress. You can have an urge to gamble when you’re bored or sad. To overcome this, try relaxing activities or exercising. Spend time with friends and family who do not gamble. If you have a family member who has a problem with gambling, it’s important to work with them. This will give you the support you need and help them realize you’re not alone.
You may think that a manic episode is the cause of your gambling problems, but this is not always the case. Mood disorders can remain even after you stop gambling. If you are able to recognize the signs of an emotional disorder, you can treat it. You can try medication, therapy or lifestyle changes. You may also want to consider marriage counseling.
You can also seek out peer support from other people who have gambling problems. These can be a crucial part of your recovery. You may have difficulty admitting that you’re an addict, but this is important to your recovery. A support group can provide you with a safe, confidential environment to talk about your issues. You can also seek out counselling from a trained professional. This type of therapy is called cognitive-behavioral therapy, and focuses on changing unhealthy gambling behavior. It can also teach you coping skills.
You can get help through a number of organizations, including BetterHelp. They have nearly 3 million registered users and offer professional online therapy. You can register and use the BetterHelp Quiz to match you with a therapist. You can then schedule an appointment. This is free and confidential.
If you suspect you have a gambling problem, you can contact the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). You can also join a peer support group. These are 12-step groups for people with gambling problems. These groups have former addicts and can provide you with guidance. If you’re a family member, you can call the helpline to speak with a trained professional.
Some jurisdictions have heavily regulated gambling. Depending on your jurisdiction, you might be in violation of the law if you gamble with a group of twenty to thirty people through wired communication. In some countries, such as Australia, you can find organized football pools.