CBT For Gambling Addiction
It’s widely documented that gambling can lead to serious problems for some individuals and this can have devasting effects on the lives of those with a gambling addiction.
People who have gambling problems often spend more than they can afford on their addiction. And in a similar way to those who have addictions to drugs or alcohol, their habit can become all consuming and affect other areas of their lives.
Often, an individual with a gambling problem will have other wellbeing issues and may be prone to impulsiveness or have a compulsive personality that makes them reckless with their finances and enjoy the risk involved with betting or gambling.
Many of those who have a gambling issue find that their relationships and career can be negatively affected by their addiction, which can lead to stress, anxiety and depression.
It is important to seek help for a gambling problem and get the support needed to effectively reduce gambling habits and meet the long-term goal of recovery.
How cognitive behavioural therapy can help with problem gambling
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of treatment for all types of addictions, including gambling.
A professional CBT therapist will help clients to understand their urge to gamble and identify situations which could trigger their gambling compulsion. CBT will guide the person through a process of change, helping them recognise the thoughts and behaviours that enable their gambling and modify those beliefs and actions to work towards a future free from addiction.
It’s important for the client to identify any underlying issues that cause the urge to gamble. It could be that gambling is a coping mechanism to deal with stress or escape loneliness or boredom. CBT offers a road to a more constructive way of coping with unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that can help to remove the desire to gamble.
How we can help
At Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Interventions we have proven experience in analysing and evaluating our clients individual needs through our verbal counselling sessions.
We can then define the level of treatment that will help clients to achieve a happier outlook on life without a dependency on gambling, to build a better financial future and encourage self-growth and positive change.
