Addiction problems are seemingly all over the place, yet one that is paid the least amount of attention is gambling addiction in particular. While such kind of addiction does not involve abusing any substances, it surely does have an impact on a person’s well-being on a neurochemical level, regardless of gender, race, social status, and age.
Gambling addicts are often attracted by the idea of making money in an easy way and worsen their addictive symptoms as a result. This disease might be a little hard to catch at first, which is why it is just as dangerous as any other types of addiction. Family Impact, in this regard, is an important factor that can either shift a person’s perspective on their behavior pattern for the better or make the symptoms worse. Today, we will be touching upon parenting-related struggles with the presence of gambling addiction.
How to spot gambling addiction in adults
The very first sign that the adult has got addicted is their constant shortage of money. They may display behavioral patterns in the form of frequent borrowing or even stealing, showing their emotional instability. Among others, their job is typically affected by their ongoing addictiveness as they have to spend a lot of time off work or end up endlessly searching for a new vacancy.
Mental health is another evident indicator. Depressive and suicidal thoughts, anxiety, hopelessness, or mood swings become present in an addict’s daily life. Personality changes are also noticeable with blatant signs of agitation, worry, defensiveness, or absent-mindedness. All these modifications influence personal relationships with closed ones, wearing off long-established trust. Oftentimes, sleep quality and eating habits causing physical and mental health-related issues start to appear, too.
How to approach a child as a parent suffering from gambling addiction
First and foremost, self-awareness and understanding of the danger of the problem can help establish communication with the child. The underlying principle of addiction is rooted in secrecy and isolation, so it is critical to have open discussions about the issue in question as well as its impact. Despite the difficulties, coming off as a role model for a kid will remain a respectful attitude within the family.
After all, it is indispensable to keep seeking help and guidance from those qualified to provide professional support to stop the addiction taking control over everything. Even if children are presumably safe and are not exposed to addiction, counseling may help them process negative emotions caused by their addicted parent and take a different view on the issue. This way should prevent any tendencies to get addicted in their adult life.
Always seek help until it is too late
Be Gamble Aware is a free service providing confidential help and support to those worried about their, or someone else’s gambling.
GamCare is a website giving the tool that should facilitate and accelerate the recovery, all accessible to anyone.
Gordon Moody is an online gambling therapy service.
Gamblers Anonymous is an international support community that arranges online and in-person fellowship groups to recover with the so-called 12-Steps program.
