Discovering the link between problem gambling and mental health

The connection between problem gambling and mental health

Problem gambling is a condition where a person continuously engages in gambling despite the negative effects that may come with it. It can lead to psychological distress and make them prone to other illnesses. Mental illnesses, on the other hand, are conditions that affect one’s emotional, mental or psychological wellbeing. They may occur in different forms, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance abuse. Gambling addiction can activate or worsen a pre-existing mental health condition, and vice versa.

The effects of problem gambling on mental health

Problem gambling and mental health are interlinked as one can lead to the other. A person who suffers from a verbal or physical argument related to gambling, may further develop depression, anxiety or low self-esteem. The effects of gambling on one’s life can also result in stressful and time-consuming problems. Regularly buying lottery tickets to meet financial needs can cause significant anxiety, while losing all of the savings to gambling can result in depression.

The risk factors of problem gambling and mental illness

Mental illnesses and pathological gambling share various risk factors, including brain chemistry and heredity. Depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance abuse and anxiety increase the likelihood of an individual developing a gambling addiction. Moreover, prolonged and excessive gambling can result in blood pressure, digestive problems and sleep disorders. Problem gamblers are also more likely to attempt suicide due to financial worry or excessive stress.

Get help for problem gambling and mental health

If you or your loved one is struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s essential to get professional help. Both gambling and mental health problems have various therapies and medication options that can assist in managing and alleviating the symptoms of both conditions.

Some of the available treatment options include counseling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication. Counselling is a vital aspect of treating both gambling and mental health disorders. It focuses on identifying and managing the factors that contribute to one’s gambling behaviour and potential triggers of depression, anxiety or low self-esteem that may accompany it. CBT is a type of therapeutic intervention that challenges negative thinking patterns that may contribute to either problem gambling or mental illness. Find more relevant information about the subject by visiting this carefully selected external resource. https://ttpatch.com, supplementary data provided.

Remember, both problem gambling and mental health disorders are treatable conditions – you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to a professional to start your journey to recovery.

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