Gambling Addiction
The kick of winning: it’s what causes a gambling addiction
The number of gambling addicts is estimated at well over 70,000 in the Netherlands and approx. 40,000 in Belgium. Gambling gives these people a kick they cannot live without. People often start gambling just for fun, by way of entertainment or for a bit of excitement. Playing is one thing, but once in a while you may have a winning streak. This is when you start believing in your luck or the effectiveness of a certain system. Losses are usually attributed to external factors: the machine was set up wrongly, the system was not working or someone else cheated.
Short-odd games of chance
Short-odd games of chance (i.e. slot machines, lotteries) provide the highest risk. One knows straight away if there is a profit or a loss, so the temptation to have another go is almost irresistible. These games of chance and gambling are highly addictive because of the tempting pattern of winning and losing (sometimes you will win a small amount, then nothing for a while and only very rarely you will win anything substantial).
Abstention symptoms in gambling addicts
The gambler keeps on playing, even when the problems pile up sky-high. He neglects his relationships, work or studies. The tension of the gambling takes a gambler to the same level of intoxication as someone who is drunk or high. Gambling allows you to repress all negative thoughts. Gamblers also experience classic abstention symptoms such as sleep disorders, panic, irritability, gastrointestinal problems, headaches and depression.
Different types of gambling addiction
Gambling often starts at the one-armed bandit or at the (legal or illegal) casino. The slot machine is easy accessible and the games are short and intense. There is a new chance to try one’s luck every four seconds. Online gambling is booming. In the Netherlands alone 100 million EUR are gambled away at the virtual casinos. Other forms of entertainment that are also on the rise, such as bingo nights or poker competitions, can also cost a pretty penny.
SolutionS offers help with gambling addiction
A gambling addiction often goes hand in hand with alcohol- and/or coke dependencies. The addict will do whatever it takes to get his hands on some money and the craving left by one unfulfilled need will often be subdued by resolving the other need. Eventually, the consequences can no longer be hidden from the outside world. Pangs of conscience undermine the self-confidence even further. The gambler gets removed further and further from his feelings, standards and values. Persisting in the habit only creates more problems. However, it takes courage to admit that you have to step away from this vicious circle and that you need help. SolutionS provides help, within 24 hours, if necessary.
Twelve-Step Minnesota Model
Through intensive therapy, as an outpatient or at a clinic, you will get the opportunity to think about your problems in a different way. The Twelve-Step Minnesota Model is the foundation for the road to recovery from gambling addiction. It is essential that you make a radical change. You will be assisted in doing so, step by step. Your family will also be involved in this process, after consultation.