Gambling is an activity in which you bet something of value on an uncertain event. The risk, prize, and consideration are all factors that must be considered before you decide to enter into a gambling game. Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of intelligence or background. However, there is help available for those suffering from gambling addiction.
Problem gambling affects people of all levels of intelligence
While two-thirds of the population reported having engaged in some type of gambling during the previous year, only a small proportion of this population had a problem gambling disorder. This prevalence was 0.5 to 1.0 percent. The study also found that the odds of developing problem gambling increased with each standard deviation decrease in verbal IQ.
Although problem gambling can be financially feasible, the long-term effects can be devastating. It can affect relationships, financial security, and even lead to suicide. Individuals with gambling addiction are at a greater risk for committing criminal acts, losing jobs, and suffering from serious health problems.
It is not caused by a manic episode
In a manic episode, a person can overspend and gamble away their savings. They can also drive recklessly or engage in sexual activity that isn’t appropriate for their mental state. They may also become aggressive and lash out at critics. Some people even become delusional and start hearing voices. In either case, the person feels extremely high and irritable.
However, it’s not clear if a manic episode is to blame for gambling. Some experts have drawn similarities between gambling and substance abuse, although this is still controversial. While bipolar disorder sufferers often gamble during a manic episode, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have a gambling disorder. Nonetheless, their behavior and consequences are similar. If you’re worried about your behavior, you should seek treatment. Treatment options include therapy, medication, and support groups.
It is not caused by substance abuse
Gambling and substance abuse often go hand in hand and can have serious consequences. The dual diagnosis treatment option can help both patients and their families overcome their problem. This approach combines individual therapy, 12-step programs, and family therapy to address the dual disorders. When done properly, it is possible to successfully treat both disorders at the same time.
Gambling disorder is more common in people with a history of substance abuse or co-occurring mental illness. This includes people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), impulse control disorders, or personality disorders.
It is not caused by depression
Studies have found that people who engage in compulsive gambling tend to be more depressed than people who do not engage in gambling. The prevalence of gambling-related suicide attempts is estimated to range from 12% to 30%. Hence, psychiatrists must be trained in diagnosing and treating such patients.
In order to treat compulsive gambling, it is essential to understand the causes of depression and gambling. Depression affects many aspects of a person’s life, including their sense of well-being. Although depression can be a contributing factor to gambling, it is not the cause of it. Both disorders can occur together and may need to be addressed simultaneously to treat the symptoms.