Understanding Gambling
Why do people get addicted to gambling?
Genetics and familial pattern
Dopamine reward system in the brain is overly activated
Anticipation of the win that produces the greatest dopamine release
Who is most at risk from becoming addicted to gambling?
In the United States, Chinese are 3 to 5 times more likely to suffer from gambling addiction than the general population
Males (gambling has increased in women over 65 and under 35, but men are still at higher risk)
Children of pathological gamblers
You adults who have a “big win” early in life
Those with pre-existing mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, or a substance abuse problem
Problem gamblers may be prone to other compulsive behaviors, such as shopping and over-spending or hyper-sexual behavior
Common stages of compulsive gambling
Stage 1 - Winning
There are more wins than losses or the gambler may score a “big win“ that promotes their belief they are smarter than other gamblers, that they have it down, and they know how to win.
Stage 2 – Losing
The pace and frequency of gambling is stepped up, and the sums get larger. The gambler believes all losses will be recouped. They engage in deceptive and negative behaviors, such as borrowing money, lying and boasting about wins. Finally a major setback sends the gambler on a downward spiral.
Stage 3 – Desperation
The gambler spends every waking hour thinking about gambling, where to obtain the money to continue gambling, what the next bet will be, ways to beat the system, and how to come out on top again. Negative behaviors increase in frequency and intensity, along with losses. The pattern includes pathological lying, gambling to cover pain, and the increase in anger and blame. Friends, family and coworkers are wise to the game.
Credit cards are maxed out, savings depleted. At this point, the gambler will steal or embezzle money, expecting to pay it back after the next big win, but every cent goes back into gambling.
Stage 4 – Hopelessness
The gambler gives up and may contemplate or attempt suicide. They resort to illegal activities that may lead to incarceration. In the United States, Chinese commit less crime in most categories except in gambling-related financial crimes, which is 6 times higher than the general population by some measures. For many this is the final stage. For a few, however, there’s a fifth stage, finally, of recovery.
Stage 5 – Recovery
The gambler admits that they have a problem and want to overcome it. Finally they enter treatment.
What treatment options are there?
Therapy and self-help programs with peer support are useful for many people with gambling disorder. Cognitive behavior therapy has also been shown to help because it teaches people healthier ways of thinking and behaving. Medications are sometimes prescribed. Many people suffering from gambling disorder benefit from residential treatment programs.
Researchers estimate that more than 80% of gambling addicts never seek treatment. Social and family stigma often prevents sufferers from reach out for help. But effective treatment is available. Healing begins at reaching out. At Cathay Psychological Institute, we understand your anguish and will help you explore options for recovery. Please schedule a free consultation with us. Our compassionate counselors are here for you!
“More than 173 million people living in China are suffering from a mental disorder with fewer than 10% having ever been seen by a mental health professional.”
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