Gambling Addiction Rehab Centers
Gambling disorder is recognized as a behavioral addiction with neurological similarities to substance use disorders. Compulsive gambling can devastate finances, relationships, and mental health. Treatment combines cognitive-behavioral therapy to address distorted thinking patterns, financial counseling, and peer support through Gamblers Anonymous. Many individuals with gambling addiction also struggle with substance abuse, making integrated treatment essential.
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At Santa Cruz Drug Rehab, we recognize that gambling addiction can be just as devastating as substance use disorders. Our directory connects you with treatment centers that specialize in helping individuals regain control over compulsive gambling behaviors.
Understanding Gambling Disorder
Gambling disorder is recognized in the DSM-5 as the only behavioral addiction classified alongside substance use disorders. Research shows that gambling activates the brain's reward system in ways similar to drugs and alcohol, explaining why the urge to gamble can be so powerful and difficult to control.
Signs of gambling addiction include:
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve excitement
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back
- Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control gambling
- Preoccupation with gambling thoughts and planning
- Gambling when feeling distressed
- "Chasing losses" by gambling more to recover money
- Lying to conceal gambling involvement
- Jeopardizing relationships, jobs, or opportunities due to gambling
- Relying on others for money to relieve gambling debts
The Connection with Substance Abuse
Studies show that up to 23% of pathological gamblers also have an alcohol use disorder, and rates of other substance use disorders are similarly elevated. Casinos often provide free alcohol, and the impulsivity underlying gambling addiction can extend to substance use. Effective treatment addresses both issues simultaneously.
Treatment Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the most evidence-based treatment for gambling disorder. It addresses distorted thinking patterns like the "gambler's fallacy," overconfidence in winning, and beliefs about luck. Treatment helps individuals identify triggers and develop alternative coping strategies.
Peer Support Programs
Gamblers Anonymous follows the 12-step model and provides valuable peer support. The community of people in recovery helps combat isolation and provides ongoing accountability.
Financial Counseling
Gambling often causes severe financial damage. Many programs include financial counseling to help individuals manage debt, rebuild credit, and establish healthy money management practices.
Medication Options
While no medications are FDA-approved specifically for gambling disorder, some medications used for substance use disorders (like naltrexone) have shown promise in reducing gambling urges.
Finding Help
If you or someone you love is struggling with gambling addiction, help is available. Browse our directory of treatment centers to find specialized gambling addiction treatment.