What are the consequences of problem gambling?
Gambling addiction is associated with sizeable money losses and with a progressive disruption of the gambler’s life. In many cases, the lives of the people close to him/her are affected as well. Many problem gamblers lose their jobs and have increased emotional and medical problems. These serious personal and social problems, including financial, legal, occupational, medical, and psychological difficulties, result in significant costs to the individual, the family, and society. What are the treatment options for problem gambling? Although there is no consensus about the best treatment for gambling addiction, numerous studies point to a wide range of potentially effective approaches, such as medication, psychotherapy, and self-help groups like Gamblers Anonymous. Case example of problem gambling A woman made an appointment with a psychiatrist because she had been forced to confront her 39-year old husband about his gambling and the terrible financial pressure it caused them. Married for
