Gambling Intervention
When someone is addicted, whether to alcohol or drugs, gambling, eating or sex, the lives of their friends and family can be turned upside down. Despite promises to quit, the behavior may even worsen and loved ones, out of genuine care and concern, or desperation, may consider addressing the pain such behavior is causing. There are protocols for carrying out such a successful gambling intervention that require the professional expertise of a trained interventionist, who can convey care and understanding. Indicators for an intervention include:
- The behavior in question is causing significant damage
- Denial prevents consideration of the damage done
- The individual won’t seek help on their own
- Friends and family can change the enabling environment
The interventionist must convey care and non-judgemental understanding. The motive for intervention is to protect, not punish. An intervention is not a confrontation, but an organized expression of concern.
Gambling addiction can start innocently enough, but for some, the fun of a night out gambling with friends can turn into something more destructive. When gambling interferes with normal life, becoming a priority above family, friends, work or traditional leisure activities, it may have become an addiction.
Often characteristics of gambling addiction include:
- Gambling longer than planned
- Often gambling until one’s spent every dollar
- Sleeplessness caused by consuming thoughts of gambling
- Spending income or savings on gambling before paying bills
- Several failed attempts to stop gambling on one’s own
- Considering or following through with plans to break the law in order to fund gambling
- Borrowing money to pay for gambling
- Depression and/or suicidal tendencies brought on by thoughts of gambling
- Remorseful feelings after gambling
- Gambling in hopes of gaining money needed to pay bills, etc.
If you think someone you love may be addicted to gambling, an intervention may be the best way to address the problem.
