How CBT can help with problems with Gambling

Gambling in itself, like a day at the races, playing the lottery is not problematic. Gambling, just like drinking alcohol only becomes problematic (a doctor would say pathological) when the person is doing it at the expense of other commitments like work and family. People who are pathologic gamblers can't control their impulses to gamble. They end up losing a lot of money and get into financial trouble. Gambling usually causes problems with their work, school or relationships. However, in spite of these problems, a pathologic gambler will continue to gamble. Men or women of any age can be pathologic gamblers. Depression, drinking and taking drugs often go along with pathologic gambling. Pathologic gamblers may also think about committing suicide. What causes pathologic gambling? Many experts think that pathologic gambling is an addiction because of the "rush" you feel when you win and lose money. A person's experiences and personality type also play a large part.

Problems with Gambling, a Case Study

It started with just the odd bet in the bookmakers during lunchtime, but gradually fruit machines were included and the lunch hour became very long. Patrick now gambles each day; his lunchtime starts at 11 in the morning and ends around 3 in the afternoon. Evenings are filled with Internet gambling. It has cost him lots of money and he is about to get fired from his job. Patrick grew up in a family where his life was completely organised. He went to an expensive private school with hardly any free time. When he has nothing to do, he gets restless and nervous. Gambling is his strategy to combat nervousness. When he gambles he feels relaxed and in control.

Unhealthy Negative Feelings

Craving for gambling

Beliefs

"I can't stand this"
"I'll just do half an hour"
"I will not gamble more then £10"

Self-Defeating Behaviours

Gambling

What triggers the problems now?

Any negative feeling