Gambling Addiction Treatment: Rehab For Problem Gambling

In the intricate dance of risk and reward, gambling can swiftly transform from a leisurely pastime to a consuming compulsion.

At Sivana Bali, we recognise the profound impact such an addiction can have, not just on the individual but on families and communities as well. Offering a sanctuary of recovery and understanding, our dedicated team is here to help navigate the complexities of this overwhelming journey, guiding those ensnared towards a brighter, gamble-free horizon.

What is a Gambling Addiction?

A gambling addiction, medically referred to as ‘Gambling Disorder,’ is a persistent and recurring problematic pattern of behaviour associated with gambling activities.

Unlike casual gamblers who can walk away after a few rounds, a problem gambler feels a compelling urge to continue betting, often in more significant amounts, irrespective of any negative consequences.

This compulsive behaviour goes beyond the thrill of taking risks; it’s an uncontrollable desire to chase losses, driven by an emotional need rather than a simple desire for financial gain. The disorder can profoundly affect an individual’s personal, professional, and social life, making it vital to seek appropriate intervention, including going to rehab for gambling.

How Does a Gambling Problem Start?

Problem gambling often begins as a seemingly harmless and enjoyable activity. However, for some individuals, the thrill of the gamble can become much more than just occasional fun.

Various triggers, such as personal stress, financial pressures, or significant life changes, can escalate the frequency and intensity of betting. Over time, the uncontrollable urge to gamble may intensify, especially in the face of losses, with the individual believing that the next bet might be winning.

This cycle can lead to developing a gambling addiction, where the drive to play isn’t just about winning money but an emotional need to continue the behaviour despite detrimental outcomes.

How Are Substance Use and Compulsive Gambling Related?

There’s an intricate relationship between gambling addiction and substance abuse. For many individuals, the exhilaration of gambling can act as a euphoric experience similar to the high derived from drugs or alcohol.

This overlap isn’t merely coincidental. Studies have shown that individuals with a gambling disorder often grapple with co-occurring issues such as depression or anxiety, which may lead them to self-medicate with substances.

At Sivana Bali, we recognise the complexities of dual diagnosis cases. The consequences can be magnified when gambling addiction and substance misuse intertwine. That’s why our gambling treatment plans are tailored to address both conditions simultaneously.

By focusing on these disorders’ root causes and interconnected nature, we offer a holistic rehab experience that seeks to treat the symptoms and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

Who’s At Risk Of Getting Addicted to Gambling?

While anyone can find themselves in a position where they need rehab for gambling addiction, there are certain demographics in Australia that are statistically more likely to develop an addiction to gambling.

A report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies indicates that 73 percent of all Australians participated in gambling activities to some extent. Of those who did gamble, around 46 percent were at some risk of gambling harm.

Another report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare indicated that 2 out of 5 Australians participated in gambling activities weekly.

The same report indicated that gambling was more prevalent in men aged 18 to 54 than it was in women and that men were more likely to gamble more often, on more platforms, and with more money. Horse racing, poker machines, and sports betting represented the most prevalent forms of gambling.

Men in their early thirties were likely to gamble on fantasy sports and esports. Men around 39 were most likely to gamble on poker machines and participate in sports betting. Men aged around 41 were likely to wager on horse racing.

Reports also indicate that 1 in 6 Australians aged 16 to 17 participated in some form of underage gambling.

Overall, the net gambling losses of Australians totalled $21.2 billion between 2019 and 2020.

Compulsive Gambling Addiction Treatment at Sivana Bali

At Sivana Bali, we deeply understand the intricate challenges of compulsive gambling and its often interwoven connection with substance abuse.

Our renowned treatment facility offers a comprehensive treatment programme tailored to the individual needs of those grappling with gambling addiction.

Our inpatient treatment setting ensures that individuals are immersed in a supportive environment removed from the triggers and temptations of the outside world. This immersive approach paves the way for sustained recovery and meaningful change.

Central to our approach is cognitive behavioural therapy, a potent tool in retraining the brain to break free from the harmful cycles of addiction. Our team of skilled therapists utilise this method to help individuals recognise, challenge, and alter destructive thought patterns that fuel their gambling urges.

Furthermore, group therapy forms a crucial component of our treatment programme, providing a platform for individuals to share experiences, gain insights, and build a support system with those on a similar journey.

Given the common co-occurrence of substance abuse and gambling addiction, our multifaceted treatment options also encompass therapies and interventions to address both issues simultaneously. This holistic approach ensures that all underlying problems are tackled, giving individuals the best chance at a lasting recovery.

How To Control Problem Gambling

Other than going to a gambling rehabilitation centre, there are a number of things that a person can do if their gambling behaviour were ever to become a problem. Some of the ways in which people with a gambling addiction may control their behaviour include:

Surrendering Financial Control

In order to gamble, a person needs to have access to money. By surrendering financial control over to someone else, some who won’t release funds for gambling, a problem gambler is forced to stop gambling entirely since they’ve got nothing with which to place wagers.

Self-Exclusion Programmes

There are a number of self-exclusion programmes wherein a person voluntarily commits to not gamble for an agreed-upon period of time. During this self-exclusion phase, an individual will not be able to gamble in a casino and many online betting platforms.

Set Content Limits

A method that can curb some gambling behaviour is to block online gambling platforms. By setting content limits on a home Wi-Fi network, a person can restrict their gambling to some extent.

Getting Professional Help

Someone with a gambling addiction can seek professional help outside of a gambling addiction rehab centre by going to individual counselling or support groups. Individual therapy can help a person address the root cause of their gambling addiction, and support groups can offer encouragement and accountability.

Distraction

Another method that people with gambling problems can use to restrict their behaviour is to distract themselves. By finding another, less destructive hobby, a person can occupy their time with something that doesn’t result in the consequences of gambling.

What Are the Effects of Gambling Addiction?

Often hidden in the shadows, gambling addiction carries profound consequences that permeate many aspects of an individual’s life.

For many, an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling becomes a constant companion even when faced with financial loss, emotional distress, and deteriorating personal relationships. This addiction isn’t just about the thrill of winning; it’s driven by a compelling need to continue gambling despite the toll it takes on one’s life.

As the individual becomes more trapped by this addiction, they may neglect personal and professional responsibilities, leading to strained relationships and financial distress. Their mental well-being can also deteriorate, leading to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression.

Over time, without intervention, the severity of their gambling can escalate, increasing the risk of developing more profound issues or even resorting to illegal activities to fund their habit.

It’s essential for anyone witnessing these signs in themselves or their loved ones to seek help immediately. Recognising the depths of this issue is the first step towards recovery.

Gambling Addiction Treatment at Sivana Bali

At Sivana Bali, we deeply understand the intricate challenges of compulsive gambling and its often interwoven connection with substance abuse.

Our renowned treatment facility offers comprehensive gambling addiction treatment programmes that are tailored to the individual needs of those grappling with each problem gambler who comes to us to get help.

Our rehab for gambling addiction ensures that compulsive gamblers are immersed in a supportive environment, removed from the triggers and temptations of the outside world. This immersive approach paves the way for sustained recovery and meaningful change.

A central tenet of our approach is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a potent tool in retraining the brain to break free from the harmful cycles of addiction. Our team of skilled therapists utilise this modality to help individuals recognise, challenge, and alter destructive thought patterns that fuel their gambling urges.

Furthermore, group therapy forms a crucial component of our treatment programme, providing a platform for individuals to share experiences, gain insights, and build a support system with those on a similar journey.

Given the common co-occurrence of substance abuse and gambling addiction, our multifaceted treatment options also encompass therapies and interventions to address both issues simultaneously. This holistic approach ensures that all underlying problems are tackled, giving individuals the best chance at a lasting recovery.

Contact Us 

Confronting a compulsive gambling problem can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Sivana Bali, we’re here to help you navigate the path to recovery, identify and manage addiction triggers, and ultimately empower you to stop gambling and regain control over your life.

If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t hesitate. Reach out to us today and begin the transformative journey towards a brighter, balanced future.