Gambling is a form of self-soothing, often as a way to escape from negative emotions or social situations. The act of gambling helps the individual to release the stress of the moment and helps them socialise with others. However, the act of gambling can become a problem if the individual is unable to control the urge to gamble. This is where therapy can come in handy. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, can help an individual change their thinking and behavior about gambling.
Responsible gambling means understanding the odds and knowing when to quit. Although the temptation is strong, remember that gambling is not a way to make money. You should treat gambling as a treat, and make sure to budget the money you spend on gambling as an expense. Chance-based gambling, like playing bingo or gaming machines, is also a bad idea. Chance-based gambling involves equal odds for all players. You can spend your time avoiding these forms of gambling if you do not feel that you can stop gambling.
Although online tests can help to detect problem gambling, they cannot be a substitute for a face-to-face evaluation by a clinical professional. A clinical professional will provide a detailed assessment and develop a personalized treatment plan for an individual. Treatment may address a variety of aspects of a person’s life, such as family issues, financial difficulties, and the professional situation. If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from gambling addiction, seek help right away. Your health care provider may be able to refer you to the right treatment provider.