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Are You Concerned About Your Gambling? How to Know When to Seek Help
Public Group active 4 days, 9 hours agoFor many people, gambling is an occasional form of entertainment—a fun night out at a casino, a lottery ticket bought on a whim, or a friendly wager on a sports game. But for some, the line between harmless fun and a serious problem can become blurred. If you’ve found yourself questioning your gambling habits or feeling concerned about the role gambling plays in your life, you’re not alone. Recognizing that there might be a problem is the first, most crucial step toward regaining control.
At The Gambling Clinic, we understand that it can be difficult to assess your own behavior, especially when it comes to a topic as stigmatized as gambling addiction. This post is designed to provide a clear, non-judgmental guide to help you understand the signs of a gambling problem. Our goal is to empower you with information so you can make the best decisions for your health and well-being. As a leading resource for gambling addiction treatment in Tennessee, we’ve seen firsthand that recovery is possible, and it often starts with a simple moment of self-reflection.
Understanding Gambling Disorder: More Than Just Financial Loss
A gambling problem, or gambling disorder, isn’t just about losing money. It’s a recognized mental health condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the negative consequences it has on your life. One of the biggest misconceptions is that a gambling problem is easy to spot. Unlike substance abuse, there are often no obvious physical signs, making it a “hidden” addiction. This can make it difficult for the individual, as well as their loved ones, to recognize the severity of the issue.
So, how can you tell if your gambling has crossed the line from a hobby to a problem? The following are some of the common symptoms and warning signs, based on the diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder:
Behavioral and Emotional Signs
Preoccupation with Gambling: Do you find yourself constantly thinking about gambling? This can include reliving past gambling experiences, planning your next venture, or thinking about ways to get money to gamble.
Needing to Gamble with Increasing Amounts of Money: Have you found that you need to bet more and more money to achieve the same level of excitement? This is known as tolerance, and it’s a classic sign of addiction.
Inability to Control, Cut Back, or Stop Gambling: Have you made unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling? This loss of control is a hallmark of a gambling problem.
Restlessness or Irritability When Trying to Stop: Do you feel restless, irritable, or anxious when you try to cut down on gambling? These are symptoms of withdrawal.
Gambling to Escape Problems or Relieve Feelings of Distress: Do you use gambling as a way to escape from problems or to relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression?
Social and Financial Signs
Lying to Loved Ones: Have you lied to family members, friends, or therapists to conceal the extent of your involvement with gambling?
Jeopardizing or Losing Significant Relationships or Opportunities: Has your gambling caused you to lose or jeopardize a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity?
“Chasing” Your Losses: After losing money gambling, do you often return another day to get even? This is known as “chasing” your losses, and it’s a dangerous cycle that can lead to even greater financial problems.
Relying on Others to Provide Money: Have you had to ask friends, family, or others for money to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling?
If you recognize yourself in several of these signs, it may be an indication that you would benefit from seeking help. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to hit “rock bottom” to get help. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will be to get back on track.
When to Seek Professional Help
Deciding to seek help is a personal choice, but there are some clear indicators that it’s time to reach out to a professional. According to The Gambling Clinic, you would likely benefit from help if:
Gambling has created or is related to your financial distress.
Gambling has created conflicts in your key relationships.
You find yourself wanting to gamble to relieve boredom or distress.
If any of these statements resonate with you, it’s a strong sign that gambling is no longer just a game. It’s impacting your life in significant and harmful ways, and it’s time to consider getting support.
What Does “Getting Help” Look Like?
Many people are hesitant to seek help because they don’t know what to expect. At The Gambling Clinic, we believe in a collaborative and non-judgmental approach to treatment. We work with you to create a personalized plan that meets your unique needs and goals. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out to us:
A Focus on Your Goals: We understand that everyone’s goals are different. Some people may want to stop gambling altogether, while others may want to learn how to gamble in a more controlled and responsible way. We do not require abstinence; our goal is to help you reduce the harm from gambling and regain control of your life.
Evidence-Based Treatment: We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is widely recognized as the most effective treatment for gambling problems. CBT helps you to identify the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to your gambling and to develop healthier coping strategies.
One-on-One Support: You’ll work one-on-one with a trained professional who understands the complexities of gambling addiction. Our therapists are here to provide you with the guidance, support, and encouragement you need to make lasting changes.
A Manageable Time Commitment: We know that life is busy. That’s why our program is designed to be flexible and manageable. Most of our clients complete the program in about eight to ten weekly sessions. As we often say, “You could be 8 weeks away from taking back control.”
Taking the Next Step
If you’re concerned about your gambling, we encourage you to take our free, confidential online screener. This tool can help you to get a better understanding of your gambling habits and to determine if you would benefit from seeking professional help.
Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to confront a problem and to take the steps necessary to make a change. At The Gambling Clinic, we’re here to support you every step of the way. With locations in Memphis, Nashville, and Johnson City, as well as telehealth services throughout Tennessee, we make it easy to get the help you need.
Don’t let gambling control your life any longer. Take the first step toward a brighter future today.
