How to Help a Loved One With a Gambling Problem

Gambling can be a great way to pass the time, but it can also lead to serious consequences if you have a problem. It can affect relationships, finances and work. It can be difficult to identify a problem, but it is possible to overcome gambling addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

When someone gambles, they risk money on an event that is unlikely to happen in the near future. This could be a football match, or buying a scratchcard. The betting company sets odds, such as 5/1 or 2/1, which determine the amount of money you could win if your bet wins.

People might gamble for several reasons, including to relieve anxiety, gain confidence or self-esteem, and as a way to forget about their problems. They might think that if they win they will have more money to spend or feel better.

If a loved one has a gambling problem, you can help them by understanding their motivations and setting boundaries in their finances. You can also talk to them about getting treatment and how to stop gambling.

Psychiatrists used to view pathological gambling as a compulsion rather than an addiction, but the latest DSM-5, which was published in May 2017, has reclassified it as a disorder that needs treatment. The move follows 15 years of deliberation and reflects new insights into the biology of addiction.

Why People Gamble

The most common reason for gambling is to get a rush or ‘high’. It can be a way to relieve stress or unwind after a hard day at work or following an argument with a spouse. It might also be a way to socialize with friends and family.

Why Someone Might Have a Gambling Problem

If you notice that a loved one is gambling regularly, or has lost a lot of money in the past, it can be a sign that they have a problem. It might also be a warning that they are struggling financially and need support.

It can be difficult to know how to help a loved one with a gambling problem, but it is essential to start addressing the issue as soon as it arises. Often the person will not want to speak about their issues, and may be unable to explain why they are gambling.

However, if you do not talk about it, it can lead to a more serious problem. The person might be tempted to steal or use your money. If you do not have enough money to support the person, you might need to take over their finances and set financial boundaries.

When a person has a gambling problem, they might also lie about their finances to avoid losing money. They might also withdraw more money to buy things they don’t need to make up for their losses.

In addition, they might have a lot of debts that they are struggling to pay off and can’t afford to get out of. They might even have to borrow money from their families or other people in order to gamble.