The classic case of gambling addiction was described by FM Dostoevsky in the novel "The Player" back in the 19th century. Since then, the circle of gambling has expanded significantly. Roulette, "one-armed bandits", lotteries, computer games, sports betting, etc. were added to the traditional cards. Today, the term "gambling" (gambling or ludomania) refers to a state of painful need for gambling, an uncontrolled craving for any game. It is impossible to treat this dependence with a medication.
Instruction manual
one
Analyze your playing behavior and / or attitude to the games of your loved ones. Psychologists distinguish the following alarming symptoms:
- complete immersion in the game, inability to interrupt, end;
- loss of interest in family affairs and communication with friends;
- sleep disorder, a decrease in its duration, deterioration in quality;
- excessive excitability, aggressive behavior;
- denial of dependence, a lie about the insignificance of the game for a person.
2
If the "first call" is missed, gambling takes on asocial and illegal forms. A person neglects everything that is not related to games, including basic hygiene rules. In an effort to get more money for further bets, he goes to deception, forgery and theft. As a rule, the gamer cannot save work, as ceases to perform official duties.
3
Recognize the problem. This will be the first and most important step in the fight against gambling. The sooner it is done, the higher the chances of success. Do not reassure yourself that you or your loved one is just a gambler who can stop visiting the game halls at any time at will.
4
Try to find the cause of the addiction. Maybe you don’t have enough “thrills” in your life or self-control failed after a stressful situation. If in this way the player tries to solve a personal or official problem, you need to try to show him other options.
5
Enter a restriction system. At the first stage, you need to tightly control the amount of cash. Do not take with you and do not give a relative gamer a large sum if he goes shopping alone. It’s also necessary to temporarily refuse a bank card with which it is so easy to withdraw money at any time of the day.
6
Change your daily routine and adhere strictly to the new schedule. Plan your time so that almost the whole day is busy with useful things: work, cleaning the house, traveling to the country, shopping for groceries, etc. You will find that gambling has taken the place of important and enjoyable things, for example, communication with children. Restore a full-fledged lifestyle.
7
Stay in touch with family and friends all the time. Mobile phones are the first helpers in this. If you suddenly visit a desire to play or just become sad, talking with a friend or family member will help relieve emotional stress. In addition, you will constantly be under the control of loved ones, which is especially important at the beginning of treatment.
eight
Create a positive social circle. Drive away "colleagues" on games, all who propagandize a game as a lifestyle. Actively engage in sporting events, look for yourself in creativity, express feelings in dealing with children, become a breeder of dog champions or organizer of gardening experiments. The main thing is that your new hobby carries a positive charge, has nothing to do with gambling, does not cause protest among relatives and friends, but brings variety to your life.
9
Talk to those who have already found a healing path. Now in most Russian cities there are clubs of mutual psychological assistance for people suffering from gambling. Attend several meetings, listen to the real stories of club members. Most likely, these stories will be similar to what is happening to you or your loved ones. Share your concerns and doubts. Having said the situation out loud, you can look at it from a different point of view and get valuable advice.
ten
Seek help from a psychologist or psychotherapist. A qualified specialist will tell you how to easily and quickly overcome addiction. He will pay attention to details that seemed insignificant to you, and will develop a full-fledged rehabilitation program.
note
Based on the Federal Law of December 20, 2006 No. 244-ФЗ "On State Regulation of the Organization and Conducting of Gambling, " gambling is prohibited throughout Russia, except for specially designated zones.