Gambling Problem Help: Best Resources & Treatment in 2024
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Jul 17, 2024
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07:34 p.m.
ET
Gambling addiction, also known as Gambling Disorder, is a growing issue that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) estimates in the past that around 9 million Americans currently suffer from gambling addiction, resulting in a national social cost of $14 billion per year. And with the increased popularity and accessibility of gambling products across the country, that figure is likely to rise in the years ahead.
Luckily, in 2024, numerous resources and treatment options are available to help those struggling with this addiction. This article navigates how to evaluate gambling behaviors, how a gambling problem is diagnosed and the various treatment options available, including the innovative approaches offered by Birches Health.
How to evaluate gambling behaviors for potential problems
Recognizing the signs of Problem Gambling is the first step towards seeking help. Common symptoms include an inability to stop gambling or even thinking about your next gambling venture, lying about gambling activities and gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness or guilt. Missing time with family and friends or neglecting hobbies are telltale signs often noticed by those closest to you. Financial issues, such as accumulating debt or borrowing money to gamble, are also red flags.
For those unsure if their gambling behavior is problematic, self-assessment tools can be incredibly helpful. Birches Health offers an effective, seamless and private self-assessment quiz that can help individuals evaluate their gambling habits and determine if they need professional assistance. You can access this tool here.
How is a gambling problem diagnosed?
Diagnosing a gambling problem involves a thorough process that includes self-reporting, clinical assessments and adherence to diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Healthcare professionals use a nine-item assessment to determine the presence of Problem Gambling, which evaluates criteria such as preoccupation with gambling, repeated unsuccessful attempts to reduce gambling, and continued gambling despite experiencing negative consequences.
For a detailed explanation of the diagnostic process, you can visit our breakdown on the medical diagnosis of Gambling Addiction. In addition to the standard criteria, a licensed Birches Health counselor or other healthcare provider may seek consent to communicate with your friends and family to gain further insight into your gambling behavior. Moreover, since Gambling Disorder can often be linked to co-occurring mental health issues, counselors may employ mental health assessments to understand the full scope of your condition.
Gambling problem help, resources & treatment options
There are a number of treatment options available for those who may be struggling with a gambling problem. Choosing one is often not a question of which option is best, but rather which one is right for you. That involves multiple factors such as severity, individual preferences, location and financial considerations. Let’s run through the top options in the United States:
Virtual Gambling Addiction Telehealth Treatment
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped many aspects of healthcare, including the rise of telehealth as a viable option for treating mental health problems and behavioral addictions. For gambling addiction, virtual care can provide a convenient and accessible means of receiving treatment from home. This approach is especially beneficial for those who lack access to specialized care locally or prefer the privacy and convenience of online treatment.
Birches Health excels in providing specialized treatment for Gambling Disorder, offering a variety of services customized to fit each individual's needs. Their holistic approach integrates therapy, support, and resources to deliver effective care.
Services Offered by Birches Health:
Individual Therapy: Personalized one-on-one therapy with licensed professionals specializing in Gambling Addiction.
Group Therapy: Virtual sessions that offer peer support and shared experiences.
Workshops and Webinars: Educational sessions about understanding and managing Gambling Disorder.
Support Materials: Articles, videos, guides, self-assessment quizzes, coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
Birches Health's telehealth treatment is accessible from anywhere, making it ideal for individuals in remote areas or those with mobility issues. Flexible scheduling allows patients to arrange sessions around their busy lives.
How to get started with Birches:
Book an Appointment with a Therapist: Schedule an assessment with a licensed clinician
Speak with a Care Specialist: Get personalized guidance for next steps
Refer Someone Else: Get help for a friend or loved one
Free Self-Assessment: Evaluate gambling habits to determine if treatment is needed
For even quicker assistance, you can call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to get in contact with Birches ASAP.
National & State Hotlines
Hotlines offer immediate assistance for those struggling with Gambling Addiction, providing 24/7 support and linking callers to local treatment options and support groups. The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) is an essential resource that offers confidential help and connects individuals to local services. Additionally, many states have their own dedicated hotlines for Gambling Addiction support.
One-on-One, In-Person Counseling
In-person counseling facilitates direct interaction with a therapist. Face-to-face meetings enhance the therapist-client relationship, enabling more effective communication and understanding. However, finding a therapist specialized in Gambling Addiction treatment can be difficult, often resulting in long wait times. Despite these obstacles, in-person counseling is a valuable option for those who prefer face-to-face interactions.
Gamblers Anonymous & Peer Support Groups
Support groups provide a communal environment where individuals can share experiences, offer mutual support and work together toward recovery. Gamblers Anonymous (GA) uses a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous, with a spiritual component. Consistent meetings provide ongoing support and a structured environment for recovery. The group setting helps individuals stay accountable to their recovery goals and members may benefit from the collective wisdom and support of the group.
In-Patient Treatment Facilities
In-patient treatment facilities allow patients to receive continuous care, ensuring immediate help and supervision. These facilities provide around-the-clock care and support, structured daily schedules, individual and group therapy sessions and access to medical and psychiatric care. Programs often include meditation, exercise, and other holistic therapies to support overall well-being.
Benefits of In-Patient Treatment:
Presents a safe and secure environment that can mitigate self-harm.
Constant supervision and immediate access to care in serious moments.
Much-needed stability with distance from unhealthy environments.
Structure with strict schedules can help establish fresh, healthy routines.
Identify and start to address underlying issues and co-occurring disorders.
Conclusion: Which treatment type is best?
It’s not necessarily about determining which form of treatment is objectively best. Rather, it’s about selecting the most suitable treatment for you when it comes to Gambling Addiction. This involves considering multiple factors such as addiction severity, personal preferences, accessibility and financial constraints.
Birches Health’s telehealth services mean you get a sweeping remote treatment from the comfort of home, making them an excellent option for those seeking to soothe anxieties over stigma and stereotypes concerning Gambling Addiction while receiving convenient and effective treatment.
Your comfort and the level of support given can ultimately be the dealbreaker when making your decision. Before you settle on one form of treatment, it is essential to explore all options, consult healthcare professionals to make a well-informed decision and potentially mix and match resources.
Whether you opt for virtual treatment, national & state hotlines, support groups, in-person counseling or in-patient treatment facilities, any and all of these support and resource options can be experienced simultaneously and all are readily accessible to assist you in overcoming Gambling Addiction today!
What other resources are available?
For more information on the resources available, including self-assessment tools, coping strategies and educational materials, visit Birches Health.
By leveraging the resources and support available in 2024, individuals struggling with Gambling Addiction can take meaningful steps toward recovery and reclaim control of their lives.
