A gambling addiction is characterised by the continuous urge to gamble, despite the negative impacts it can have. Problem gambling can cause difficulties in relationships and at work, whilst the cost of funding it can become a huge financial burden. If you are in need of gambling help you may find that even when you win large sums of money the winnings will be used to fund more bets until they run out. Recently gaming websites have made gambling more accessible, creating issues for problem gamblers who can gamble at all hours of the day and night. Gambling therapy can take place in groups or on an individual basis and aims to alleviate the destructive effects of problem gambling.
Gambling addiction can make you feel as though you are losing control. The main approach to gambling therapy is by using some form of psychological support or intervention. This may involve getting help from professionals or joining a self-help group such as GamCare or Gamblers Anonymous; these groups offer local, telephone and online help. The first step is to try to understand why the addiction developed, and what other stresses or problems you may be trying to avoid. This may be explored through individual, or group therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective and can help people to understand what triggers gambling and the ways in which you may change your behaviour. Medical treatments can also play an important part in relieving underlying stress or depression.