Life Works – the leading specialist in alcohol rehabilitation.

Gambling, much like alcohol, is widely accepted in today’s society and media. The general acceptance of gambling in society can result in casual gambling quickly developing into an addiction that can take over someone’s life. Much like any addiction, there will be a progressive need to increase the risk involved, as the smaller stakes will not generate the same excitement as would have initially. Gambling addiction is often referred to as compulsive gambling, and is considered an affliction that causes people to have moderate to severe impulse control problems.

If you know someone who is having problems with controlling their gambling addiction, or fits the description of a gambling addict, then you are already familiar with the pain and the complete lack of security that comes with compulsive gambling. A family of gambling addicts must understand that an addict will keep gambling regardless of their financial situation, or even if they are feeling shame, guilt or anger about their behaviour.

Gambling addiction is more than just being careless with money – it is a life-threatening, psychiatric illness that is much more serious than just the behaviour involved with gambling. Most addictive disorders co-occur with other mental health issues such as Depression or Anxiety, therefore any potential gambling addict will be at risk to severe psychological disorders. Due to this it is imperative to consider gambling addiction treatment at the earliest opportunity, to increase the possibility of long term gambling addiction recovery.

Do I need Gambling Addiction treatment?

I think I have a Gambling Addiction problem - how can I tell?  What are Gambling Addiction symptoms?

There are a great number of gambling addiction symptoms, including gambling activities, social behaviours and psycho-social behaviours. Because the addictive behaviours are rewarding in and of themselves, those prone to addictive behaviours tend to become addicted simply by participating in the act. Denial of reality is a major indicator of any addiction, with a gambling addict refusing to recognize how their gambling addiction is taking up more of their lives and further withdrawing and isolating themselves from others. This isolation, combined with feelings of being overwhelmed by the addiction, can sometimes result in suicidal thoughts or behaviours.

I think that I need Gambling Addiction treatment, how can Life Works help me?

Gambling addiction treatment is critical for addicts who would like to learn to control their addictive behaviour and bring their lives under control. This program assists in identifying the thoughts and behaviours which initially contributed to gambling, as well as identifying what is within the addict's control and what is not. Co-morbidity with other psychological stressors and illnesses is also examined, and the gambling addict is viewed in a very holistic manner to ensure that all facets of their gambling addiction are being addressed. This includes rebuilding the broken social networks which often occur as a result of addiction.

How can I start Gambling Addiction treatment at Life Works?

The first step toward starting gambling addiction treatment is to call, at which point an admissions counsellor can confidentially begin to evaluate the situation of the gambling addict. An optimal course of action is then recommended, including either residential or outpatient treatment. This program is conducted to medically ensure the health and well-being of all participants experiencing gambling addiction and other addictions. Participants follow a daily schedule, which is shown to assist with addictive behaviours, and will be part of group therapy sessions with other gambling and non-gambling addicts due to the basic similarities underlying all addictions. It starts with a call, 0800 081 0700