Compulsive gambling, or gambling addiction, is an impulse control disorder with features similar to other addictive disorders. However, it’s without involving the use of an intoxicating drug. Gambling addiction in South FL is on the rise. It can occur in many forms but mainly appears in the following manner; lotteries, casinos, bookmaking, card rooms, and bingo.
Gambling addiction in South Florida not only affects the gambler itself but their family, employer, and community. As the gambler goes through different phases of their addiction, they tend to spend less and less time with their family. And yet, use the family’s money on gambling. In a professional setting, those struggling with a gambling addiction in South Florida will misuse company time in order to gamble, has trouble concentrating, and complete projects and sometimes engages in employee theft of embezzlement. In cases of severe desperation, the gambler may experience hopelessness, suicidal thoughts and attempts as well as trouble the law and marital problems.
The number of people who gamble socially and qualify for a gambling addiction diagnosis range from 2%-5%. Although this may not seem like a high number, in the United States alone, this percentage translates to affecting millions of people.
Signs and symptoms of gambling addiction in South Florida are vast and include the following:
– A return to gambling after a loss, in an effort to recoup
– Gambling to try to escape problems, relieve sadness or anxiety
– Becoming easily irritated when trying to reduce or stop gambling
A gambling addiction generally means gambling involves more than one symptom. But less than five required to qualify for the diagnosis of compulsive or pathological gambling. Commonly, gambling addiction, like most other emotional conditions, is the result of a combination of biological vulnerabilities, ways of thinking, and social stressors.
The Delray Center for Healing can help if you, or someone you know, is struggling with any type of addiction. With both inpatient and outpatient treatment options available, there is no reason not to seek help today.
Dr. Rodriguez founded the Delray Center in 2003 and built it on a foundation of core clinical, professional, and ethical principles that are adhered to still to this day. Dr. Rodriguez founded the Delray Center in 2003 and built it on a foundation of core clinical, professional, and ethical principles that are adhered to still to this day.