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Overcome Problem Gambling with Compassionate Therapy

Take the first step toward healing and regain control of your life with personalized support at Wholesome Psychology.

Problem Gambling

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Wholesome Psychology, Alberta, CA
Author: wholesome
Date: November 30, 2024

Understanding and Overcoming Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is an issue that can quietly creep into one’s life, often starting as a casual or occasional activity but growing into a harmful pattern that affects various aspects of personal well-being. While gambling can be an exciting and entertaining pursuit for many, it becomes problematic when it begins to interfere with finances, relationships, work, and overall mental health. At Wholesome Psychology, we understand that gambling addiction can affect anyone, and we offer compassionate support to help individuals regain control and rebuild their lives.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling doesn’t always appear immediately, and its signs can vary from person to person. However, some common symptoms include:

  • Spending more money than you intended, often going beyond a predetermined budget.
  • Using borrowed money to gamble or cover other expenses, such as bills or food.
  • Chasing losses, believing that more gambling will lead to recovering lost money.
  • Feeling regret, guilt, or shame after gambling.
  • Holding onto the belief that a big win is just around the corner if you keep trying.
  • Hiding or lying about the extent of your gambling activity to others.
  • Taking on credit cards or loans specifically to fuel your gambling habit.
  • Gambling no longer feels fun, but instead, you experience brief relief when you win.
  • Concern from loved ones about the impact of your gambling.
  • Inability to control the urge to gamble, even when you know it’s causing harm.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself, it’s essential to assess the broader impact on your life. Are you facing financial strain due to gambling? Is your gambling affecting your relationships or job performance? Do you feel trapped in the cycle of gambling, unable to stop despite your best efforts? If you feel that gambling is a problem, or if others around you are concerned, it may be time to reach out for help. At Wholesome Psychology, we are here to provide the support and guidance you need to navigate through this challenge.

Effective Treatment Options for Problem Gambling

Recovering from problem gambling is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment can vary based on your personal needs, and at Wholesome Psychology, we take a client-centered approach to provide the most effective strategies for healing. Some of the therapies that have proven effective for many individuals include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy helps individuals understand how their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their gambling behavior. CBT equips clients with tools to challenge unhealthy thinking patterns and replace them with more constructive approaches to managing stress and emotions.
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): EFT focuses on building emotional awareness and improving emotional intelligence. By understanding how emotions drive behavior and impact relationships, individuals can better manage their feelings and respond to triggers in healthier ways.
  • Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy: This technique allows individuals to access deeper states of relaxation, offering the opportunity to explore unconscious thoughts and patterns that may contribute to gambling behaviors. Hypnotherapy can be a valuable tool for creating positive changes and breaking free from compulsive habits.

What to Expect from Therapy at Wholesome Psychology

At Wholesome Psychology, we understand that every journey is unique. Our therapists are dedicated to working closely with you to uncover the root causes of your gambling addiction and help you build a path toward recovery. Whether you are struggling with underlying issues like anxiety or depression or simply want to regain control over your gambling behavior, we offer a supportive and personalized approach. With the right tools, strategies, and compassionate care, you can begin to overcome the destructive cycle of problem gambling and take back control of your life.

We offer flexible therapy options, including in-person, online video counseling, or telephone sessions—whatever works best for you. You don’t have to face this alone. Take the first step toward recovery by contacting us today. We’re here to listen, support, and help you move forward with confidence.

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