What is pathological gambling? What are its symptoms and how can it be treated?
According to estimations, approximately 8 million* people in the U.S. experience problems with gambling, and around a quarter of these are said to be severely affected. This is equal to about 2.5% of the total population.
A pathological gambler develops an addiction to the thrill of betting increasingly larger amounts of money and taking greater risks, which typically leads to tragic consequences. They experience comparable events of loss of control, denial and compulsive behaviour as individuals who abuse substances such as narcotics or alcohol.
Overcoming these problems is often a complex and challenging process, which is why it is recommended to seek medical advice to ensure the best odds of successful recuperation.
Fortunately, it is possible to recover from pathological gambling with enough care and support.
Gambling addiction is closely related to issues concerning biochemical and neurotransmitter balance. The likelihood of recovery is significantly higher if these imbalances are approached via Biomolecular Restoration. Apart from physical factors, it is also essential to identify psychological problems that can be traced to professional work and relations, genetics, social factors and traumatic events/abuse.
You can find out more about gambling addiction in the interview with Dean Gustar – Head of Clinical Operations.
Dean Gustar is a senior member of The Kusnacht Practice counselling team. His career includes more than 15 years of experience in work at residential treatment environments, as well as in planning and executing specialist services for clients with drug and alcohol problems. Dean is a thoroughly certified counsellor and counselling supervisor. He utilises an integrated approach to counselling to provide the client with the utmost satisfaction.
*Source: NCPG
