Starting a journey toward a healthier lifestyle often begins with a single, brave step. If you feel that wagering has taken too much control over your daily routine, you are certainly not alone. Many people face challenges with gambling addictions and search for ways to regain their peace of mind.
Finding the right support provides the necessary tools for a fresh start and lasting change. Taking action today ensures a brighter tomorrow for you and your loved ones. Let’s look at how specialized therapy can guide you towards stability and joy.
Why can’t I stop gambling?
Gambling can become an addiction due to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and personal circumstances. For some, the thrill of gambling can activate the brain’s reward system, releasing feel-good chemicals such as dopamine, which can lead to repeated behavior.
Compulsive gambling is often linked to alterations in brain chemistry. The pursuit of the next “win” can lead to an overproduction of dopamine, creating a cycle of craving and satisfaction that is hard to break. Understanding this chemistry is crucial for developing effective gambling addiction treatment plans.
How do I know I have a gambling addiction?
The line between recreational gambling and addiction can blur, but certain warning signs can alert you to the need for intervention. Gambling addiction is a progressive disorder, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Behavioral consequences
- Chasing losses and increasing bet amounts – that next big win will be the one that solves all the problems, except that it never does
- Lying about gambling activities – minimized the true extent of the problem to yourself and loved ones
- Neglecting commitments – falling behind with work or school, missing important family events
- Losing control – unable to cut back how often or how much you gamble
- Emotional and Mental Health consequences
- Anxiety – restlessness, unable to think of anything else, concern over debt and other consequences
- Depression – feeling hopeless about getting out of the cycle, isolation, increased suicidal thoughts
- Emotional instability – cycles of highs and lows depending on wins and losses, shame and guilt
- Financial consequences
- Debt accumulation – most use credit cards to cover losses and fuel future bets, average debt for men with a gambling addiction is $55,000 to $90,000.
- Lost assets – home going into foreclosure, vehicles repossessed or pawning valuables, spending savings and retirement accounts
- Employment – difficult to sustain when distracted by need to gamble.
- Legal – filing for bankruptcy and potential fraud/theft/embezzlement to cover losses
How can I get help with a gambling addiction?
Most insurance policies cover therapy for addictions, your out of pocket costs will depend on your specific plan. Many people start their process with an outpatient mental health therapist. They will do an evaluation with you and assess if you have need a higher level of care; depending on the severity of your addiction, type of addiction and the extent of your support system.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is recognized as an effective type of treatment. It helps you identify negative thought patterns that have developed, such as ‘Just one more winning bet and everything will be OK’ or ‘I’m due for a win’. Once recognized, your therapist will work with you to determine how accurate those statements are and if there are other ways of looking at the situation. Having a different outlook can lead to different behaviors.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is also very helpful. It uses your brain’s own networks and rewards center to help you see the pros and cons of your gaming more objectively. For example, it will help you see that there are downsides to your gambling, and that there are other times that feel good about yourself.
You’re Not Alone. Our Therapists are here to help, in Pearland, TX.
Hang in there. This won’t last forever, even if some days feel like it might. You’re planting the seeds for future blossoms. All our therapists at Blue Horizon Counseling offer sessions both in person and via telehealth. Find the right therapist for you. We accept most major insurance plans.
How to Start Therapy Today
Blue Horizon Counseling is located in Pearland, Texas for in person sessions. We are located at the corner of Broadway and Hwy 35, in northern Brazoria County and near southern Harris County. Follow these steps to get started on your journey:
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Written by Heather Dunn, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, specializing in trauma, dissociation and EMDR. Heather has been practicing for over 20 years and enjoys sharing her knowledge and helpful tips.
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