Problem gambling is a very real problem, with the effects it can have on a person’s life being quite severe. Not only are they likely to consider suicide, but they are also more likely to have other behavioral and mood disorders. The good news is that there is help for problem gamblers. There are numerous counselling services available for free, 24/7. They can help you deal with your gambling problem and get your life back on track. This article will discuss some of the main problems associated with gambling.
Problem gamblers have other behavioral and mood disorders
Unlike the general population, problem gamblers and pathological gambling are more likely to suffer from co-occurring mood disorders. This study examines the relation between the psychological characteristics of problem gamblers and mood disorders. Pathological gamblers and problem gamblers completed a clinical interview to assess co-occurring mood disorders and completed measures of problem gambling severity and impulsiveness. There are important implications for diagnosis and treatment.
Bipolar disorder and depression were strongly associated with problem gambling. The prevalence of problem gambling was elevated in those participants with major depressive disorder. However, the increase was not statistically significant, owing to the small sample size and the small number of depression patients. Furthermore, bipolar disorder is strongly associated with gambling problems, and the mood disturbance associated with bipolar disorder is thought to play a powerful role.
They are more likely to consider suicide
While suicide is rarely an immediate outcome, the link between problem gambling and suicidality is important. The relationship between these two is often not well-known or understood. Although there is a connection, further research and timely data collection are needed to fully understand the relationship between these two risk factors. The good news is that government agencies are taking steps to protect individuals from the harm of problem gambling. A recent study published in the British Medical Journal showed that problem gamblers were more likely to consider suicide.
Although most people with gambling problems do not seek help for this condition until it reaches a criminal stage, early warning signs can indicate that a person may be considering suicide. Early warning signs include family disputes, petty theft, and even a potential risk of self-harm. Suicide prevention is possible if the police are aware of the problem. Police can take several steps to lessen the risk of suicide. Screening problem gamblers for problem gambling and suicidal thoughts should be conducted before individuals are taken into custody. Police should also make sure to investigate incoming detainees for suicide risk.
They are more likely to be men
There are many reasons why gambling is more common among men than women. In general, men have a higher risk of addiction, are more impulsive, and enjoy the thrill of winning big. They also tend to be more strategic in their approach to gambling and are more likely to stick to it. This makes them more susceptible to the dangers of uncontrolled gambling. If you are interested in finding out more about why men are more likely to be gamblers, continue reading.
Research by Harris C. Jenkins M. and colleagues suggests that men are more likely to perceive positive than negative outcomes when gambling. Men tend to use risk-taking to deal with pressure and social anxiety. Men also care more about their image than women do, which could also explain why they are more likely to gamble. In addition, a study by Wells S. found that men who suffer from social anxiety often turn to substance abuse as a way to deal with this pressure.