Gambling Addictions – How to Know If You Are Problem, Social, Or Pathological
A gambler can fall into one of four categories: Problem, Social, or Pathological. Here are some tips to help you determine which category you may fall into. Taking an online test does not give you a diagnosis and cannot replace a comprehensive evaluation by a trained clinical professional. The assessment is thorough and individualized, and a trained clinical professional will come up with a treatment plan that addresses the needs of the gambler. Treatment may include addressing financial issues, legal issues, or your professional situation. If you suspect that you might be suffering from a gambling addiction, you should seek treatment. Your health provider will refer you to a treatment provider.
Professional gamblers
Working as a professional gambler requires a great deal of dedication. They may spend many hours seated, and many will end their day at lunchtime. They also must maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen. While a regular job offers worker’s compensation and paid vacation and sick days, professional gambling does not. Even when you do fall ill or go on vacation, you will still be earning money. If you cannot dedicate your full time to gambling, you may want to consider other careers.
Social gamblers
While gambling is not illegal in all states, some are more permissive than others. Florida, for example, allows social gambling as long as the prize is less than $10. Connecticut also allows social gambling, but only as long as it is outside the context of gambling. In general, all states allow social gambling, though some limit the prizes and the amount of money that can be won. Therefore, if you’re planning on gambling with friends and family, you may want to find out which state allows social gambling before committing to a specific practice.
Pathological gamblers
While there is no single definition of pathological gambling, it has similarities to substance abuse. Substance abuse has similar diagnostic criteria and is often associated with substances consumed or ingested. Tolerance, on the other hand, is the need to consume progressively higher amounts of a substance in order to achieve the desired effect. Similarly, pathological gamblers have a need to increase their bets and risks over time, and this tolerance results in withdrawal symptoms and increased risk-taking behavior.
Self-help groups
Self-help groups for gambling addicts are free and non-binding meetings in which members can share their experiences and feelings related to their addiction. These groups function as a permanent complement to existing addiction support systems. By offering an opportunity to share experiences and feelings about gambling, self-help groups help gambling addicts find sustainable solutions to their problems. These groups are not substitutes for professional therapy, but rather extensions of such systems. As a result, they can be an invaluable source of support for those who suffer from gambling addiction.
