Overcoming Gambling Addiction: My Path to Freedom and Healing
By
Dr G Om Prakasham
M.B.B.S, MS, MCh, FACS(Singapore)
Chairman, Lotus Wellness
Mental Health Advocate
Consultant Heart Surgeon
Gambling can start as a harmless diversion—an occasional lottery ticket, a trip to the casino, or a friendly bet. For some, however, this habit can spiral into an uncontrollable addiction, leading to devastating consequences. This is my story of gambling addiction, how it nearly consumed my life, and the path I took toward recovery.
The Downward Spiral: Recognizing the Problem
It all started innocently enough. I began gambling casually, enjoying the thrill of chance and the hope of a big win. But as time went on, I found myself gambling more frequently. I couldn’t stop. Every loss pushed me to bet more, convinced that the next game would turn things around.
As I sank deeper into debt, gambling became an obsession. I started hiding my activities from loved ones, avoiding conversations about money, and neglecting my responsibilities at work and home. Looking back, I now realize these were red flags of gambling addiction—an addiction as dangerous as substance abuse.
Gambling addiction can affect anyone. It doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender, or background. The initial thrill is deceptive, but soon, it can turn into a compulsive behavior that takes over your life. Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward recovery.
How Gambling Addiction Affects Mental Health
One of the most challenging aspects of gambling addiction is its impact on mental health. Constant stress, guilt, and shame led to anxiety and depression. The cycle of winning and losing created a roller coaster of emotions that worsened my mental state.
Studies show that gambling addiction often coexists with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. The overwhelming sense of hopelessness can make it difficult to seek help, but it’s important to know that support is available.
The Importance of Treatment and Therapy
Acknowledging my addiction was incredibly difficult. I was ashamed and terrified of what my life had become. But this was also the turning point. After hitting rock bottom, I knew I needed help.
Treatment for gambling addiction is essential to reclaim your life. It’s not just about stopping the behavior but understanding the underlying causes. Why do you gamble? What are the triggers? Therapy plays a crucial role in addressing these questions and offering long-term strategies for staying clean.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recommended approach for treating gambling addiction. It helps individuals recognize the negative patterns of thought that drive their behavior and teaches them healthier coping mechanisms. Group therapy is another powerful tool, providing a supportive environment where people share experiences, struggles, and successes.
The Road to Recovery: Finding the Right Gambling Addiction Treatment Centers
Finding a good gambling addiction treatment center made all the difference in my recovery journey. These centers provide a combination of therapy, counseling, and support systems tailored to the individual’s needs. They understand the complexities of gambling addiction and offer comprehensive care that addresses both the addiction and its impact on mental health.
When choosing a treatment center, consider the following factors:
Accreditation – Ensure the center is licensed and accredited, which guarantees a certain standard of care.
Treatment Approach – Some centers focus on therapy alone, while others offer a combination of therapy and medication.
Support Systems – Recovery is a lifelong process, and it’s important to have access to continued support, whether through group therapy, aftercare programs, or 24/7 helplines.
Steps You Can Take Today to Overcome Gambling Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, here are some steps you can take today:
Acknowledge the Problem – It’s hard to admit, but acknowledging that gambling is controlling your life is the first step.
Seek Professional Help – Don’t wait to hit rock bottom. Reach out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in gambling addiction.
Join Support Groups – Groups like Gamblers Anonymous provide a safe space to share your story, receive advice, and stay accountable.
Block Access to Gambling – Self-exclusion programs and gambling-blocking software can help you cut off access to gambling sites and locations.
Focus on Mental Health – Recovery isn’t just about stopping the behavior; it’s about healing your mind. Prioritize your mental health by engaging in mindfulness practices, exercising, and seeking therapy.
Creating a Life Beyond Gambling: A New Beginning
Recovery isn’t easy, but it’s possible. As I moved forward, I began rebuilding my life—mending relationships, paying off debts, and finding healthier outlets for stress. I replaced the rush of gambling with hobbies like exercise and meditation, which have helped me stay grounded.
Living without the constant pull of gambling is liberating. I now have control over my life again, and the peace of mind that comes with it is something I will never take for granted.
If you’re reading this and feel that gambling has taken over your life, know that help is out there. There’s no shame in seeking treatment, and the journey to recovery, while challenging, is worth every step.
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