Options for Recovery from Problem Gambling Posted On
If you’re struggling with problems from gambling, you’re not alone. Problem gambling affects millions of people and their loved ones. If you’re struggling with problem gambling, you have many options to help you get your life back on track.
Identifying the Problem
To keep things simple, we define problem gambling as any time gambling causes problems. Whether you’re finding problems in relationships with loved ones, struggling at work, or having trouble keeping up with your bills, problem gambling can affect every part of your life. Here are some questions about gambling to think about taken out of the resource Your First Step to Change:
- Has gambling cause any financial problems for you or your household?
- Has gambling ever made your home life unhappy?
- Have you felt guilty about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?
Understanding Problem Gambling
Gambling may be intended as a form of entertainment, but for some people there comes a shift from entertainment to a feeling of entrapment with gambling. Many people struggling with problem gambling feel as though they can’t stop. They may feel as though they are morally flawed. They may feel that they can’t live without placing a bet to gamble. They are WRONG!
Some people who struggle with problem gambling may get diagnosed with gambling disorder by a trained clinician. A gambling disorder occurs when the brain seeks the dopamine rush (happy brain hormone) that flows following the excitement from the risk inherent in gambling. Some people’s brains become addicted to this rush from the risk in gambling and may require some extra measures to keep themselves safe, such as seeking the help of a trained clinician.
With the right help, and the right resources, many people are finding peace and happiness in recovery from problem gambling. Recovery from problem gambling is possible. Recovery requires the decision to reach out and accept help, and welcome the change in lifestyle as you move from struggling with gambling, to a life of recovery.
Available Resources
If you’re interested in learning more about problem gambling, we have many options and resources that are just a click away!
Videos on our site offer a great opportunity to see how problem gambling can negatively affect the person who’s struggling with gambling and their loved ones. These videos also offer ways to identify warning signs, reach out, build support, and seek treatment.
EBooks are a great place to learn more about problem gambling. Learning about who can be affected, how recovery can help, and why problem gambling is often a hidden addiction, can be a huge help in getting yourself to a place of recovery and happiness getting your life back.
Your First Step to Change is a great resource if you’re interested in exploring how problem gambling has negatively affected you and your loved ones. It also offers guidance to identify how you’d like your life to be, and a step-by-step process to begin your life in recovery.
If you believe your gambling has become too overwhelming and you require some additional assistance, you can call the New York State HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (or 1-877-846-7369). By calling this number, you’ll speak to a trained clinician who can help you identify local resources so you can choose what would be best for you.
Remember: You are NOT ALONE on your path from problem gambling to recovery and a more fulfilling life. There are many people and resources available to help you. By thinking about your gambling behaviors, you are already taking the first step to change your life for the better! Congratulations!
