What influences the development of gambling addiction? When to start therapy at Nasz Gabinet Lodz?
Psychological factors
People experiencing a need for risk, stimulation, or adrenaline are more susceptible to gambling addiction. Some gamblers have low self-esteem – they often seek sources of recognition and acceptance, which can lead to engaging in gambling as a form of escape from emotional problems.
Social factors
The influence of the environment, including family and friends, plays a significant role in the development of addictions. If there are people addicted to gambling in the immediate environment or if it is socially accepted, the risk of addiction increases.
Biological factors
People with a family history of similar problems may have a higher risk of developing gambling addiction. Studies show that children from families where gambling problems occurred have a 2 to 4 times higher probability of falling into addiction.
Environmental factors
The availability of gambling and enticing advertising can contribute to the increase in addiction. Increased exposure to gambling can lead to the normalization of this behaviour.
Financial factors
Financial problems such as debt or earning difficulties can lead to escapism through gambling in the hope of improving one's material situation. Financial losses often lead to continuing to gamble in order to recover lost funds.
Gambling addiction treatment in Lodz
Treatment of compulsive gambling is a process aimed at helping regain control over one's life, decisions, and spending. This addiction can lead to serious emotional, financial, and social consequences. Nasz Gabinet Łódź offers treatment methods that help patients return to health and proper functioning.
Individual therapy
Addicted individuals can benefit from individual therapy, which allows for a deeper understanding of the causes of addiction and the development of a personalized action plan. Therapists use various methods such as cognitive-behavioural therapy to help change destructive thinking and behaviour.
Group therapy and support groups
Participation in support groups provides the opportunity to share experiences with other people experiencing similar problems. Groups offer a safe environment and mutual support, which is an important element of the recovery process.
Education and prevention
A key element of treatment is education about gambling addiction and its effects. We help our patients and their families understand the mechanisms of addiction and learn how to avoid situations that may lead to relapse.
Support for families
Gambling addiction affects not only the addicted person but also their loved ones. Family support is extremely important, which is why Nasz Gabinet offers educational and group sessions that help families understand the problem and learn how to support their loved ones on the path to recovery.
Psychological aspects of gambling addiction
Psychology plays an important role in understanding the mechanisms behind addiction. Two significant aspects are the reward system and the phenomenon of magical thinking. These elements not only influence the development of addiction but also its reinforcement, leading to difficulties in breaking free from addiction. The psychological mechanisms of addiction show how complex and difficult to overcome the problem of gambling addiction is.
Reward system
The reward system plays a key role in motivation and emotion regulation. When a player wins, the brain releases dopamine – a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure. This rewarding feeling can prompt a person to take risks again, leading to addiction. Even small wins can trigger a strong reaction, making the addicted person want more. Due to the functioning of the reward system, addicted individuals may lose the ability to think rationally. Although they know about the negative consequences of gambling, they cannot stop themselves from playing, as the impulse to act outweighs reason.
Phenomenon of magical thinking
Magical thinking is the belief that certain thoughts, actions, or rituals can influence the outcomes of events that are actually random. Gamblers may be convinced that their decisions have a real impact on the outcome, which increases their engagement in gambling. This illusion is particularly strong in games requiring strategy, such as poker, where players may think skills are crucial, although the outcome still depends on random factors.
Compulsive gambling and technology development
Technology has significantly influenced how gambling is practiced and what risks are associated with its use. Online platforms enable players to access gambling 24/7, which increases the chances of addiction. Players can easily and quickly make deposits, which encourages impulsive decision-making. Additionally, the development of mobile apps facilitates gambling anywhere and anytime, which increases the risk of addiction. Apps often contain features such as push notifications that encourage further play. Some gambling platforms use advanced algorithms to personalize user experiences, which can lead to greater engagement and difficulty in quitting.
Easy accessibility and incentives from gambling platforms create serious challenges in prevention and treatment of gambling addiction. Therefore, it is necessary to implement effective regulations and support programmes that will help minimize the negative effects of this phenomenon and protect the most vulnerable individuals from addiction.
