Addiction can come in different forms and affect people in different ways. Seeking treatment is a good way to stop addiction in its track and get you back on the road to sobriety. Unfortunately, most people choose not to get help because they, or others, may feel that their addiction isn’t real. Therefore, it doesn’t warrant time in rehab. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Being addicted to something, like gambling, is a mental disorder that’s just as serious as any other addiction. It is possible to seek help for a gambling disorder, and you can do so in an environment where people won’t judge you or make you feel like getting help is a waste of time.
What Is A Gambling Addiction?
Gambling addictions are also commonly referred to as a “Compulsive Gambling Disorder”. Recently, the American Psychiatric Association deemed it as Pathological Gambling. This means that you have the uncontrollable desire to gamble on games of chance, no matter the cost. Fortunately, there is help available to you if you feel like your addiction has grown beyond your control.
Treatment Options For Gambling Addictions
Several treatment options are accessible to you to help combat your addiction. It might be a good idea to sit down with your doctor and go over some of your choices. These might include:
- Inpatient Rehab programs: These are designed for people who are dealing with a serious gambling problem. At an inpatient facility, you’ll receive round the clock care and support. You’ll also be amongst peers who are most likely dealing with some of the same hardships that you are.
- Therapy: Whether you’re at an outpatient or inpatient facility, therapy sessions may be recommended to help pinpoint how the addiction started, what you’re doing to keep it going, and what you can do to eliminate any patterns that may be keeping the addiction alive. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most common form of therapy used that focuses on challenging harmful gambling thoughts and behaviors.
- Support groups: Just like NA and AA, there are support groups that are primarily focused on creating a space where you can get some self-help. They have a 12-step process as well to help you combat your addiction.
Conclusion
Gambling addictions are 100% real and require the same care and help as anything else. If you or a loved one is battling with an addiction, it’s okay to seek help. Call your doctor today and see what options are available to you to get you back on the road to sobriety. Call one of our counselors today at 833-610-1174.