Gambling

Gambling is a fun and occasional form of entertainment for many, but for others, it can become more than just a game. If gambling has begun to take over your thoughts, drain your finances, or impact your relationships, talk to the providers at the Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The team offers exceptional help for gambling addiction with comprehensive, personalized care. To learn more, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is gambling addiction?

Gambling addiction (also known as problem gambling or gambling disorder) is a behavioral addiction that involves an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite negative consequences. It's not just about losing money. It’s about the inability to stop, even when gambling is hurting your life.

Just like substance use disorders, gambling activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine and creating a sense of excitement or escape. Over time, you may chase that feeling by gambling more often or with higher stakes, creating a vicious cycle of wins and losses.

Gambling addiction is recognized as a mental health condition by the American Psychiatric Association and can have serious emotional, financial, and social consequences. 

What are the symptoms of gambling addiction?

Gambling problems often begin subtly, but some common signs include:

• Mental preoccupation with gambling
• Needing to gamble with larger amounts of money to feel the same level of excitement
• Trying to stop gambling and failing
• Gambling to escape feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, or boredom
• Lying to family or friends to hide gambling activity
• Jeopardizing relationships, jobs, or education because of gambling
• Continuing to gamble to win back money
• Borrowing money, selling possessions, or accumulating debt to fund gambling

If you or someone you care about is experiencing several of these symptoms, it’s time to seek professional help.

How is gambling addiction treated?

The good news is that gambling addiction is treatable. Recovery may look different for each person, but here are some of the most common and effective treatment options:

Psychotherapy and counseling

Talking with a licensed therapist, especially one trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you identify the thought patterns and triggers that drive your gambling behavior. Psychotherapy promotes healthier ways of thinking and coping.

Support groups

Support groups and programs like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offer a place to connect with others who understand what you're going through.

Medication

In some cases, medications used to treat depression, anxiety, or impulse control disorders may help reduce gambling urges — especially when gambling addiction is linked to underlying mental health issues.

Family support

Addiction impacts families and communities. Family therapy and education can help everyone involved better understand the disorder, support recovery, and address the damage done.

If you're ready to take that first step, call the Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center or use the online booking form today to schedule an appointment with a compassionate provider.