Gambling Disorder – How to Recognise and Help Your Loved One
Gambling involves wagering something of value on a random event with the intention of winning something else of value. Its causes and consequences are varied, from escapism and thrill-seeking to addiction and mental illness. It is a common pastime of many people and it contributes to the economy of countries all over the world.
Gamblers often use it as a way to socialise, and it can be a useful tool in meeting new people who share the same interests. However, for some, gambling becomes more than a hobby – it is an obsession that affects their daily lives. If you have a loved one who is a gambler, it’s important to know how to recognise and help them when they start losing control.
Whether you like it or not, gambling can make you feel good and it stimulates the brain. Moreover, skill-based games force players to devise strategies and employ tactics which can boost intelligence. In addition, it helps build a person’s social skills and provides a source of dopamine, similar to the effect of drugs.
It is also worth noting that there are no medications available to treat gambling disorder. Nonetheless, several types of psychotherapy can be helpful in helping a person change unhealthy emotions and thoughts. These include psychodynamic therapy, which examines how unconscious processes influence behavior; group therapy, where participants describe their problems with a mental health professional; and family therapy, which teaches a person’s loved ones to support them.
