Compulsive Gambling
Compulsive Gambling Causes
The cause for driving people into compulsive gambling is not known. However, it is believed that problems with the brain's naturally occurring chemicals such as neurotransmitters, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine may be the factors. Problems with these chemicals may drive an individual to compulsive gambling.
Compulsive Gambling Definition
Compulsive gambling is an impulse-control disorder in which an individual cannot resist the temptation to perform a harmful act to oneself or another individual.
Compulsive Gambling Diagnosis
A specialist in mental health can diagnose compulsive gambling through evaluation of mood and behavior patterns. The diagnosis is based on the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which is published by the American Psychiatric Association.
Compulsive Gambling Symptoms and Signs
Individuals with the disorder often attempt to gain back their losses from gambling. They gamble especially when they feel extreme emotions and do it only for the thrill than winning. If they don't gamble, they feel irritable and restless but feel guilty or remorseful after gambling. They also tend to lie to hide their gambling habits and may borrow money or resort to stealing to be able to gamble.
Compulsive Gambling Treatment
Individuals with compulsive gambling behaviors may be treated through psychotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy by identifying and replacing unhealthy, irrational, and negative beliefs with healthy and positive ones. Medications are also options to help with the individual's emotional and mood issues related to his gambling behavior. Some individuals also benefit from joining self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.