Understanding the Mind of Those Battling Gambling Addiction

Gambling is a large global industry and gambling addictions have become a serious issue. There’s no surprise there as life itself is a series of bets: your student loans, your car investment and your insurance are all bets. In some way or another, gambling occurs frequently in our society, even if it is controlled and regulated.

With this year’s Cheltenham Festival only around the corner, more than 20,000 spectators are expected to attend, while thousands more will be packed inside the pubs and bookies to watch the action unfold. Unfortunately, for people battling a gambling addiction, this time of year is a very tough time to get through as the buzz of Cheltenham is all around them. It becomes impossible to go on social media, watch TV or even listen to radio without being exposed to talks of gambling. Therefore, it is important to look out for those who may be battling a gambling addiction during this time of year.

So what is the best way to understand the mindset of those who are currently battling gambling addictions?

In the beginning, you may feel like you have the gambling situation under control. Just a few casual bets here and there. However, it can quickly get out of hand and become a huge issue on your well-being – both in relationships and financially speaking – if you’re not watching out for the warning signs early on.

We are all pleasure seekers in some way. However, with problem gamblers, their way is particularly unhealthy. Their pleasure and happiness comes in many different forms such as, a high off anticipation, escape from a negative reality, pride in one’s self and a feeling of invincibility when things are going their way. But just like that, these feelings can quickly turn to desperation, despair, low self-esteem and guilt.

You may think that these negative feelings would deter a problem gambler’s behaviour but, in fact, it can potentially inspire a more reckless approach. The anticipation of hitting a big win will continue regardless of how much they are losing. Gambling distances us from being responsible, dealing with stress and any other unpleasant reality of our daily lives.

So what is the best way for a problem gambler to get help?

The first step towards recovery is honesty. It is important to admit to yourself that you need help. It is not embarrassing or shameful, the recovery process cannot begin without identification and acceptance of the problem.

Second, it’s critical that your actions are made clear. You can accept full responsibility for your actions once you stop disguising your behaviour from those you love. Your loved ones may be demonstrating their concern for you through what may appear to be an excessive interest in your life. However, it’s critical to rely on your support system as a shoulder during your battle against gambling addiction.

If you think you may be affected by a gambling addiction, then you should seek help sooner rather than later. It is important to remember that it is ok to ask for help. Remain confident in yourself, a common misconception is that the problem gambler is irresponsible, this is not the case. A gambling addiction can affect anyone, there is no rhythm or rhyme to the type of individual affected by addiction.

Contact Tabor Group

If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction to Alcohol, Drugs, or Gambling get help today. We can help you recover in a healthy, friendly environment and beat your addiction. Don’t hesitate to contact one of our counsellors today at +353 (21) 488 7110 or Email Us and we can help you With the right support, you’ll never have to make another uneducated life and death decision for your addicted loved one again.