Gambling and Suicidal Thoughts

Gambling is a highly addictive, dangerous, and risky addiction. In a cycle that leads to financial ruin, suicidal thoughts, and a loss of self-control, people with gambling addictions tend to continue to play until they reach their goal. A person suffering from gambling addiction needs to play more to obtain the same high. This cycle can become an endless one. Gambling addiction affects physical, psychological, social, and professional aspects of a person’s life.

Problem gambling is an addictive disorder

Despite its reputation as a relatively harmless form of entertainment, problem gambling has damaging effects on both the physical and emotional health of those who suffer from it. It can destroy a family’s finances and ruin career opportunities, and the afflicted may commit criminal acts to fund their gambling habit. It is no wonder that problem gamblers are the most likely people to commit suicide among other types of addictive disorder. Fortunately, there is help available.

It is a risky game

The strategy board game Risk is played by two to six players. The board game’s version of the world shows forty-two separate territories, grouped into six continents. Players take turns using a variety of strategies to gain control of the continents and other areas of the world. A good player will know how to make the most out of the resources on the board, while avoiding other players’ actions that could cost them valuable resources.

It can lead to financial ruin

While you may not believe it, gambling is a problem and can lead to financial ruin. If you have an addiction, you may need a gambling rehabilitation program to overcome your problem. These programs are not always cheap and are expensive. If you cannot afford to pay them back, you may have to resort to stealing from friends or businesses. You can also turn to gambling to pay off your debts, but this is only going to make your debts even bigger. It may take a long time to clear them, so don’t be in a hurry to play.

It can lead to suicidal thoughts

Problem gambling has been shown to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, with a six to 15 fold increase in the risk. The increased risk remained even after accounting for other factors such as depression and substance abuse. The high levels of debt are also a major contributor to suicidal thoughts. Here are some other ways gambling can lead to suicidal thoughts. Listed below are some of the most common ways gambling can lead to suicidal thoughts.

It can be treated

Treatment for pathological gambling consists of various methods. Behavioral therapy is one option. The aim of cognitive behavioral therapy is to help an individual learn to manage and overcome their problems. In addition to behavioral therapy, medications are now available that can help a person control their gambling habit. Alcohol and nicotine addiction medications are already available, and some of these can help treat pathological gambling. Those who have a gambling problem should first visit their physician to rule out other problems before seeking treatment.