Many people use gambling as a way to escape the drudgery and stress of everyday life. In addition to relaxing, gambling can be a social and self-soothing activity. If you’re struggling with the urge to gamble, consider some other forms of entertainment, such as practicing relaxation techniques, spending time with non-gambling friends, or exercising. But before you make the decision to start gambling to relieve boredom, consider these strategies to stay away from problem gambling.
Problem gambling is a mental health problem
People who gamble excessively are more likely to commit suicide than people who don’t. Gamblers are more likely to attempt suicide if they’re also suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses. They’re also more likely to attempt suicide if they’ve previously tried to commit suicide or have been threatening to commit suicide. If you or a loved one suspects that someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, it’s important to get help immediately. Call 911 or visit your local emergency room.
It can be treated
If you are a compulsive gambler, you may be wondering if gambling can be treated. The good news is that the treatment process is much like that for other addictions. Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, can help you change the way you think about gambling. These techniques can help you control your urges to gamble and turn your attention toward more constructive activities. If you are willing to commit to a treatment plan, you can become financially stable.
It can be prevented
To prevent gambling, start by identifying your triggers. Whether you’re at a casino or in a bookmaker’s office, the desire to gamble must be suppressed. Keeping a list of these triggers is a great way to limit temptation. Identifying your cravings is also an important step to preventing gambling. Cravings are strong urges to perform a certain behavior. For example, if you’re a frequent casino visitor, you might have a strong craving to call bookies or cash your paycheck.
It can lead to depression
If you are an avid gambler, you might have a hard time putting a stop to your behavior. However, gambling can lead to depression and even suicidal thoughts. Up to 60% of compulsive gamblers have contemplated suicide at one time or another, and about 20% have even tried it during a crisis. These individuals tend to experience increased anxiety, tension, and stress, which can lead to an unhealthy mood and a distorted sense of reality.
It can be an escape from negative emotions
Problem gamblers frequently turn to gambling as a way to avoid feeling negative emotions. These negative feelings can range from loneliness and boredom to anxiety and depression. Whether it is a difficult day at work or an argument with a significant other, problem gamblers often turn to gambling to escape from negative emotions. However, this behavior has serious negative consequences. While gambling may provide an escape from negative emotions, it can also lead to health problems, relationship problems, and depression.
It can lead to financial ruin
If you’ve accumulated too much debt due to excessive gambling, you may want to consider bankruptcy as a last resort. It’s a last resort because gambling debt is not specifically prohibited by bankruptcy laws, but a trustee may determine that you accumulated debt for no intention of repaying it. Bankruptcy also destroys your credit, staying on your record for seven to ten years. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent your gambling from ruining your credit.