“An idle mind is the devil’s workshop”
PROBLEM GAMBLING
Problem gambling incorporates the entire spectrum from gambling that is beginning to feel ‘out of control’ and problematic to pathological gambling which refers to more severe gambling problems that are causing significant distress and disruption to the life of the gambler.
Problem gambling is a growing problem which is typically hidden in nature. Unlike substance abuse, drug addiction and food addiction Problem Gambling does not come with any detectable physical signs and can hence easily remain a hidden problem for many years.
Problem gamblers engage in gambling for a variety of reasons. In addition to the joy that may be experienced when gambling (and winning) other reasons include the escape from negative feelings and mood states, the buzz from taking risks and temporarily ‘numbing out’ problems.
Annika has specialised in Gambling addiction and has 14 years of experience working with this client group. She has published academic research and worked with the National Problem Gambling clinic in the UK having spent a few years in Las Vegas researching and working with this population.
symptoms
- Chasing losses
- Lying & concealing
- Preoccupation with gambling
- Loss of control
- Can't stop once started
- Increased tolerance
- Taking higher risks
Types of gamblers
Research into problem gambling has identified 3 main types of gamblers
- The Behaviourally conditioned gambler
- The Emotionally Vulnerable gambler
- The Antisocial impulsivist gambler
From A Blaszczynski (2002) Pathways model of pathological gambling. Find the article.
This model integrates the complex array of biological, personality,developmental, cognitive, learning theory and ecological determinants of problem and pathological gambling. The Pathway models presents with an important and useful framework to distinguish and help tailor treatment protocols for problem gamblers.
DO I HAVE A GAMBLING PROBLEM?
ProblemGambling.ca (a canadian based website providing help, support and information for those affected by gambling addiction) has created an online version of PGSI - a well established clinical tool to assess for gambling addiction.
Answer these 9 questions and get your results immediately!
TREATMENT
The treatment for the various types of gamblers vary somewhat, hence treatment will be tailored to fit with your needs. We can also offer couples/family sessions for affected partners, family members and loved ones. It is very important both for the problem gambler and for the affected others to benefit from useful information and support whilst going through recovery from gambling.
Problem gamblers notoriously believe that more gambling can present with a solution for the gambling problem itself ; it is therefore no surprise that the gambling behaviour can persist until a high level of distress and desperation has set it.
Being addicted to problem gambling often means that money is restricted. If you are unable to pay for private therapy with us please note that the CNWL National Problem Gambling clinic (NHS clinic) offer treatment free of charge.
If you prefer to be seen privately and you wish to book an appointment with Annika please use our contact form below.
Talk to your employees about gambling
Is your team unaware of the impact of addictions?
Would your department benefit from addiction awareness?
Are there behavioural addictions such as gambling going hidden amongst your staff members?
Arrange for a workshop on popular topics or arrange a bespoke training session for your staff.