The Benefits of Gambling Counselling
If you find that you are addicted to gambling, you are not alone. Many people have been struggling with this issue for years. If you are one of these individuals, you can find help today. Gambling counsellors are available to help people who need to overcome this problem. They are confidential, free, and available to help you at any time of day or night. Here are some of the benefits of seeking gambling counselling:
The first step towards recovery from gambling addiction is strengthening your support network. You can find support groups for individuals suffering from gambling addiction through family members and friends. Joining a sports or arts club or volunteering for a charitable cause is also a great way to meet people outside of gambling. There are many other resources available, including peer support groups and 12-step programs, including Gamblers Anonymous. These programs are modeled on Alcoholics Anonymous and require that each member have a sponsor. The sponsor is someone who was once a gambler who can help guide the person through the recovery process.
Another effective option for gambling addiction treatment is cognitive behavioural therapy. The process of therapy helps to change the way a person thinks about gambling and how he or she behaves. During cognitive behavioural therapy, the gambler will be taught how to control their urges and make better decisions. The counselor will also look at how their thinking affects their gambling. Once these are altered, it will become easier for them to stop and stay away from the casino.
Gambling in the United States has a rich history, and has been suppressed for almost as long. In the early 20th century, it was almost uniformly banned in most areas of the country. This led to the growth of the mafia and criminal organizations, and eventually the emergence of legal gambling in Canada. While legal gambling is still illegal in most places, the general public prefers to spend its funds on important initiatives. So the future of gambling looks bright.
Research suggests that youth who are college-aged are more likely to develop problem gambling. This may be due to broader developmental issues. The British Gambling Prevalence Study, for example, found that problem gambling rates were significantly higher among college-aged men than in older populations. The corresponding figures were 1.3% among 16 to 24-year-olds and 0.2% among men and women aged 65-74. This is a worrying trend that should be addressed with greater awareness and appropriate legislation.
If you are a family member of a problem gambler, seeking help is essential. Don’t be afraid to discuss the issue with your loved ones. Often, this person may be unwilling to seek help – especially from his adult children. Nonetheless, it’s never too late to seek help. In the meantime, you can always postpone gambling and consider its consequences. Eventually, you’ll find yourself back on track. You’ll be glad you reached out for support.