Gambling Addiction and Intervention
Introduction
For most of those who play various games of chance, gambling is actually an enjoyable leisure activity, which is done out of choice and discretion. But there are those the need to gamble becomes uncontrollable, and thus they lose their judgment and from there the road to rapid and dangerous deterioration becomes real.
Gambling addiction almost always starts with a small bet, and when it increases, it is very difficult at first to notice the destructive process. When gambling addiction is finally diagnosed, the problem turns out to be very monstrous.
A Severe Disorder
Gambling addiction is a severe impulse control disorder. The addiction affects not only the compulsive gambler, but also his environment — destructive to friendships, causes damage to the gambler’s family and his professional career. Funds intended for basic needs such as mortgage, food, fuel, electricity and rent are used for gambling. Over time, the debts to family members, credit companies, banks, friends and loan sharks swell to frightening proportions. Without professional help, the road to perdition is certain.
Intervention
Often the compulsive gambler will deny the fact that he is addicted to gambling and will refuse to accept help from friends and family. In order to take the first step on the road to recovery, family members and close friends of the compulsive gambler, should take actions designed to pressure the gambler to receive professional treatment for his problem, within the framework of a meeting called intervention. It is very important that the goal in the intervention is clear to all participants. Making the decision to go to treatment should be done in a supportive environment, so that the gambler knows that those around him do care about him.
