When someone you love has a gambling problem, it can make it challenging to have them be in your life. They may steal money to gamble, or they could spend all the money they earn just trying to get a big win.
On days when they win their gambles, they may be on a high, but when they lose, their lowest lows make an appearance. Compulsive gambling habits like this signify a progressive illness, so it’s essential to try to stop it before it gets out of hand. Good gambling help and treatment can support them as they recover. If you need help convincing someone you love to get treatment for gambling addiction, reach out to Southworth Associates today at 844.521.0523.
Why Do People Have a Compulsion to Gamble?
People have a compulsion to gamble for many reasons. It could start because they make a bet and win big, so they chase the idea of winning again in the future. Alternatively, they may want to gamble to make up for lost funds. Compulsions tend to form more quickly for those who engage in continuous gambling, like slot machines or online betting.
How Do You Recognize Compulsive Gambling and Get Gambling Help?
Compulsive gambling has a few significant signs and symptoms. Some possible signs of a gambling problem could include:
- Asking for loans to cover gambling debts
- Committing fraud or stealing to support a gambling habit
- Allowing gambling to get in the way of work
- Having difficulties in personal or work relationships because of a gambling habit
- Spending more than you can afford on gambling
- Being unable to cut back on gambling
- Spending more time than usual on gambling
- Trying to hide gambling from medical professionals or loved ones
If you see these signs, then someone you love may have a gambling habit or addiction.
How Can You Help Someone With a Gambling Problem?
If you have a loved one struggling with a gambling problem, it’s essential to get them help.
The first step is to talk to them. Ask them if they believe they have a gambling problem. Don’t be confrontational, but inquire if they feel like they’re spending beyond their means. It could be that they gamble less than you think, but you happen to be present when they do. Conversely, they may have recognized that they do have a problem that needs to be addressed. If they don’t agree to seek treatment, you may need to host a gambling intervention using services such as those at Southworth Associates.
If they do have a gambling addiction, the next step is to seek out help for them. Remember that triggers like placing a bet or hanging out with friends who gamble could end up causing a relapse even if they go to an addiction treatment program. To help, cut gambling out of your life when they’re around you, too.
Southworth Associates Can Get You Connected With Gambling Help
If someone you love is struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s a good time to talk about how behavioral addiction treatments can help. Behavioral addiction treatments may help them get back into control of their life, finances, and health, so they feel better each day. Finding a treatment program is easier with the help of Southworth Associates. We’ll help you perform an intervention and locate a treatment program for your loved one. We’ll also escort them to the treatment program you choose, ensuring that they get there safely.
If you want to complete an intervention, our interventionists are here to help you. Call us today at Southworth Associates at 844.521.0523 to learn more about our services.
