Gambling addiction may seem to be relatively harmless when you compare it with other addictions like drugs or alcohol, but be warned, appearances are deceptive. While the physical signs may not be quite the same, the sad fact is that many people who suffer from a gambling problem often contemplate suicide. Gamblers can dig themselves into a hole so deep that they believe there is no way out--yet they always feel just one big win away from sorting out their financial problems.
The real truth about a gambling addiction is that it rarely stands alone. Many gamblers have other addiction problems to deal with--alcohol or tobacco being the most common. Many problem gamblers also suffer from anxiety and depression. Gamblers are, by nature, a secretive group of people, so it is difficult to ascertain how many people in America suffer from a gambling addiction. In fact, people who suffer from gambling addiction rarely admit to any problems until it is too late--heading closer and closer to financial and emotional meltdown while chasing that elusive win which will solve all of their problems.
One of the main problems with gambling addiction is sorting out the debts which are left behind. People who are living in recovery after treatment for alcohol addiction, for example, can go out and get a job to return to some sort of normal life, but gamblers who owe twice or even three times their annual income have difficulty and often find living beyond the problem a daunting task. You can learn to live without alcohol and drugs, but you cannot live without money.
Family members, and even gamblers themselves, struggle to comprehend that gambling is an addictive behavior. There is such a sense of shame and stigma that surrounds gambling problems, so gambling addicts often feel they have some sort of moral failing. Many even feel such a deep sense of shame and guilt that their partners have no idea that the problem even exists until they open a credit card statement or the credit collection agencies start calling.
Help is available, yet many fail to seek treatment - often thinking that they can handle the problem themselves, or not realizing that treatment is available. Addiction treatment centers, many of the same ones that specialize in drug and alcohol addiction recovery, have the capability to help those suffering from a gambling addiction find solace as they strive to overcome their addiction. It is always best to partner with an addiction treatment facility that has the ability to treat co-occurring disorders and is staffed with a variety of specialists to help administer therapies and group accountability meetings. Aftercare programs are important as well, and alumni groups should be available to help ensure that a former patient is sticking with their road to recovery.
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The Mission of Santé Center for Healing is to address addictive behaviors and associated conditions with an integrated gambling addiction treatment model, drawing from traditional and innovative approaches. Our services are open to individuals and families who seek recovery from addictive behaviors, with a focus on treating the addicted professional. Learn more at http://www.santecenter.com
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