According to the National Council of Problem Gambling, an estimated 2.5 million U.S. adults are estimated to meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem each year. This staggering statistic showcases just how prevalent gambling addiction can be, with millions more individuals struggling with mild to moderate gambling problems.
While gambling can be addictive, it’s important to understand that everyone who gambles does not necessarily have an addiction. In this article, you learn more about what are the gambling addiction stages so you can better understand what to look out for if you suspect you or someone you know may be struggling with a gambling addiction.
At Worthy Wellness, we are a top-rated women’s San Diego drug rehab that helps patients progress along their recovery journey. Our caring team offers personalized care so you receive the best possible treatment for your unique recovery needs. We offer a variety of addiction treatment services so you can receive tailored support. Ready to start your recovery journey? Contact us today!
5 Gambling Addiction Stages to Know About
It’s important to understand that with any addiction, the addict begins to develop a dependency over time. In other words, gambling once does not mean you struggle with a gambling addiction. However, the process of gambling is designed to be addictive. There are several gambling addiction stages to know about, which include:
- Winning Stage
At the start of gambling addiction, an individual experiences a thrilling or euphoric affect caused by winning. Typically, an individual will start recreationally gambling and when they win this triggers an effect that they are lucky and in control of being able to keep winning. This starts the cycle of wanting to gamble more and bet larger amounts of money because they feel like they will keep winning when they gamble.
- Losing Stage
After the initial euphoric feeling from the winning stage, an individual will start to experience loss or the losing stage. An individual who falls into a cycle of gambling more, even if they do start losing, because they think they’ll be able to win back the money they have lost. This, unfortunately, can cause a cycle of gambling more and more with the expectation that they will win the money they lost back because they are chasing the high they experienced during the winning stage.
- Desperation Stage
As the name suggests, the desperation stage is when an individual’s thoughts and time are fully consumed by gambling. They are likely making greater losses and will start to do things like max out credit cards or try and get money from loved ones to fuel their addiction.
- Rock Bottom Stage
The rock bottom stage is when a gambling addict is completely consumed by their addiction and is completely out of control. They hit rock bottom when their finances, relationships, and entire self worth and identity are in crisis.
- Recovery Stage
Finally, the recovery stage is when an individual recognizes that they have a gambling addiction and seeks help to recover from their addiction. There is a wide range of treatment options a gambling addict can turn to, from CBT to group therapy, and more.
Help Is Available
Now you know more about what are the gambling addiction stages you need to look out for. While not everyone who gambles necessarily has a gambling addiction, it is critical to understand that gambling addiction is prevalent. This is why it’s critical to look out for the common gambling addiction stages, which include the winning stage, losing stage, desperation stage, rock bottom stage, and recovery stage.
At Worthy Wellness, we are a premier women’s drug rehab that helps patients safely overcome addiction and achieve sobriety. No longer do you have to suffer in silence with your addiction and mental health struggles. Our caring team is here to provide you with the personalized support you need to lead a healthier, happier life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can best support your road to recovery.
