What treatments are available for those with problem gambling?
Treatment for compulsive gambling may include these approaches:
- Therapy. Behavior therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may be beneficial.
- Medications. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers may help problems that often go along with compulsive gambling — such as depression, OCD or ADHD.
- Self-help groups.
What support is available for problem gamblers?
GambleAware NSW – 1800 858 858 If you’re based in NSW and have a gambling-related issue or you’re worried about a friend or loved one, GambleAware can help. GambleAware offers education, resources and tips to be gamble aware and how to gamble more safely.
What type of therapy works best for someone diagnosed with gambling disorder?
The most frequently studied treatment type for gambling disorder is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of treatment attempts to change the thoughts and behaviors that are fundamental to maintaining a pattern of behavior (e.g., gambling disorder).
Is pathological gambling a mental disorder?
Pathological gambling, also known as compulsive gambling or disordered gambling, is a recognized mental disorder characterized by a pattern of continued gambling despite negative physical, psychological, and social consequences.
Is there a medication to stop gambling?
There are no FDA-approved medications for the treatment of gambling disorder. There is, however, emerging scientific research that has shown that medications can be effective in reducing the intensity of urges and cravings for gambling.
What does the gambling helpline do?
The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) is available 24/7 and is 100% confidential. This hotline connects callers to local health and government organizations that can assist with their gambling addiction.
What happens when you call gambling Helpline?
The helpline is strictly a referral service, guiding people in the right direction for resources that best fit the needs of the caller. And sometimes that means talking a caller away from the edge.
Is compulsive gambling a mental illness?
It is classed as an impulse-control disorder. It is included in the American Psychiatric Association (APA’s) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fifth edition (DSM-5). Problem gambling is harmful to psychological and physical health.
Is there medication for gambling addiction?
Clinically, several medications are available in the United States that have been used in treating gambling disorder, including naltrexone (an opioid antagonist), lithium (a mood stabilizer) and a variety of other antidepressant and antipsychotic medications.
Can compulsive gambling be cured?
Is there a cure for gambling? No. But as with any other addiction, steps can be taken to break the hold gambling has over your life or over the lives of your loved ones. Whether you gamble all the time and cannot stop or go on binges that spiral out of control, the time to seek help is now.
How do you help a gambler in denial?
Here are a few steps to help someone who has a gambling addiction:
- Ask them if a problem exists.
- Encourage them to get help. And remember, you can’t make someone ready to change — but discussing it is the first important step.
- Be honest with them and gently talk about how their actions make you feel.