Compulsive Gambling

What is Compulsive Gambling?

Compulsive gambling is the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life. If you continually chase bets, lie or hide your behavior, or resort to theft or fraud to support your addiction, you may be a compulsive gambler. During periods of stress or depression, the urge to gamble may be especially overpowering. Eventually, you become almost completely preoccupied with gambling and getting money to gamble.

For most compulsive gamblers, betting isn't as much about money as it is about excitement. Sustaining the thrill gambling provides usually involves taking increasingly bigger risks and placing larger bets. Those bets may involve sums you can't afford to lose. Unlike most casual gamblers, compulsive gamblers are compelled to keep playing to recoup their money — a pattern that becomes increasingly destructive over time.

Source: mayoclinic.com

What are the Symptoms?

• A preoccupation with gambling.
• Taking increasingly bigger gambling risks.
• Reliving past gambling experiences.
• Taking time from work or family life to gamble.
• Concealing gambling.
• Feeling guilt or remorse after gambling.
• Borrowing money or stealing to gamble.
• Failed efforts to cut back.
• Lying to hide gambling.
• In severe cases, financial ruin, legal trouble, loss of career and family, and even suicide.

Source: mayoclinic.com

What Can Be Done?

Compulsive gambling is a serious condition that can destroy lives. Although treating compulsive gambling can be challenging, it can be successfully treated! Many compulsive gamblers have found help through our treatment program. Please call to find out more information or to set up an appointment.

Helping Professionals

Genesis Centers' Nationally Certified Gambling Counselor can provide you with Individual Treatment where you will work one on one to address all the issues associated with your Compulsive Gambling including Depression, Anger, Guilt, Anxiety, Remorse and Shame.

If you or someone you love needs help in dealing with Compulsive Gambling, Addiction, or Mental Health issues, please schedule an appointment today. A member of our professional staff is ready to assist you at (856) 858-9314.