Treatment For Gambling Addiction

If you think you might have a problem with gambling, you should consider seeking treatment. If you can’t get enough of gambling, you can use a 12-step program such as Gamblers Anonymous. This program follows the same principles as Alcoholics Anonymous. It helps you find help and a sponsor, who is a former gambler. The sponsor will give you advice and support, and they can help you set realistic goals for overcoming your addiction.

Types of problem gamblers

Problem gambling has many forms and consequences, but there are common behavioral patterns among problem gamblers. This article examines the different types of problem gamblers and the different treatment approaches available to these individuals. Poor decision-makers are the least severe type of problem gamblers. In addition to a poor decision-making problem, these individuals often exhibit depression, anxiety, and financial difficulties. As with other types of gambling problems, treatment is available to help these individuals overcome their addictions and live fulfilling lives.

The CAMH Monitor, an ongoing telephone survey of the adult population, includes questions on gambling problems. In 2000, a weighted estimate of problem gamblers in Ontario was 2.6%, involving 3.2% of men and 1.9% of women. It remained relatively stable through 2001, when 2.8% of the adult population was labeled as problem gamblers. Unfortunately, very few individuals seek out treatment for problem gambling.

Treatment options for problem gamblers

In the treatment of gambling addiction, a gambling therapist may focus on developing adaptive coping skills. These techniques can help a gambler stop his or her urge to gamble and control the amount of money he or she spends. Other types of therapy may include cognitive behavioral therapy and family counseling. A behavioral therapy may include behavioral exercises or the replacement of unhealthy beliefs with more positive ones. Although treatment options for problem gamblers vary, most are designed to help a person regain control over their life and money.

One of the best-known treatments for problem gamblers involves counseling or peer support. A support group may help a gambler overcome addiction through social support, information, and tips. A SMART Recovery program is another option. This program is based on CBT and encourages patients to balance their emotions, relationships, and financial situations. SMART Recovery is also an online community with both local meetings and virtual meetings.

Regulation of gambling

The traditional regulatory model is a flawed one in many ways. The EC recently adopted a Communication on Online Gambling and a Staff working paper on the subject. These documents outline the key challenges posed by the existing regulatory frameworks and identify five priority areas. One of these areas is the protection of minors from harms associated with gambling. In order to combat this problem, the Commission must develop and implement effective regulations that address each of these areas.

In addition to taxation and duty collection, gambling regulation requires the creation of an appropriate environment for responsible gambling. Advertising restrictions restrict the use of ‘gambling inducements’ and gambling advertisements. Online streaming of live sport is also subject to strict regulations. Advertising restrictions are aimed at limiting the exposure of children to gambling. Regulation of gambling has historically been a territorial issue. Increasingly, this trend is changing. With the passage of the UIGEA in 2011, many states have introduced similar regulations.