GAMBLING TREATMENT
Compulsive gambling is no game. It can destroy individuals and wreck families. Gambling addiction is just as real -- and its consequences just as tragic -- as alcohol or drug abuse. In fact, the American Psychiatric Association and the American Medical Association recognize compulsive gambling as a diagnosable and treatable mental disorder.
Problem gambling disturbs family, job or personal pursuits. It becomes compulsive when a person:
- thinks continually of gambling and ways to get gambling money
- gambles with more money to gain a higher level of excitement
- fails time after time to cut back or stop gambling
- is restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop gambling
- gambles to escapes problems
- gambles to get even after losing money gambling
- lies to hide gambling activity
- commits forgery, fraud, theft or embezzlement for gambling money
- risks loss of job, education or relationships
- relies on others to get out of debt
- can’t control the urge to gamble
- uses alcohol, sleep or drugs to escape
- is absent from or tardy to work
- impatient with friends or family
- neglects responsibilities
- has wide mood swings
- says, "Don’t worry about it."
As with any addiction, gambling can be prevented; and it can be treated. With our gambling prevention, education and treatment programs, the focus is on recognizing the problem and changing the behavior.
Working with a therapist, each patient develops a personal plan to regain control of his or her life. This includes:
- reorganizing debts
- re-establishing family relationships
- developing coping techniques
- participating in a 12-step program
- addressing other possible addictions
- preventing relapse
Many health insurance plans cover the cost of treatment. Financial arrangements and assistance are available for qualified individuals.
Contact us for more information; or call the Connecting Point at 712-234-2300 or 800-472-9018.
