Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a behavioural addiction characterised by an uncontrollable urge to continue gambling despite the negative consequences it brings. Just like any other addiction, it can wreak havoc on an individual’s life, affecting their financial stability, personal relationships, and mental health.
In this blog, we will explore what is gambling addiction, its statistics, effects, and recovery solutions.
Similarities with Other Addictions
Gambling addiction shares many similarities with substance abuse and other behavioural addictions. The compulsive nature of the behaviour, the craving for the thrill, and the inability to stop despite the desire to quit are common threads that tie these addictions together. The psychological and neurological effects of gambling addiction can be as devastating as those seen in drug or alcohol addiction.
Psychological and Neurological Effects of Gambling Addiction
1. Financial Ruin and Debt
One of the most immediate and visible consequences of gambling addiction is financial ruin. Compulsive gamblers often find themselves in deep debt, having exhausted their savings, taken out loans, or even resorted to illegal activities to fund their gambling habits. This financial instability can lead to a host of other problems, including loss of property, bankruptcy, and homelessness.
2. Strained Relationships with Family and Friends
Gambling addiction also takes a heavy toll on relationships. Trust is often broken, leading to strained or completely severed relationships with family and friends. The constant need for money and the lies told to cover up the addiction can create a chasm that is difficult to bridge. The emotional stress and anxiety inflicted on loved ones can be immense, leading to a breakdown in communication and support.
3. Mental Health Issues
The mental health repercussions of gambling addiction are profound. Many individuals struggling with this addiction experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression. The stress of financial problems, coupled with the guilt and shame associated with the addiction, can lead to severe mental health issues. These conditions often go untreated, as the individual may be too ashamed to seek help.
4. Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Actions
In extreme cases, the despair and hopelessness caused by gambling addiction can lead to suicidal thoughts and actions. The combination of financial ruin, broken relationships, and untreated mental health issues can create a situation where the individual feels there is no way out.
Gambling Addiction Statistics In The Asia-Pacific Region
The Asia-Pacific region has seen a significant rise in gambling addiction. Let’s take a closer look at the regional gambling addiction statistics:
Australia
Gambling remains highly prevalent in Australia, with recent data indicating that around 73% of Australian adults participated in some form of gambling in the past 12 months. This includes activities such as lotteries, scratchies, horse racing, sports betting, and poker machines. About 38% of adults gamble at least weekly, with men gambling more frequently and spending more money than women. The high engagement in gambling has led to significant harm, with nearly half (46%) of those who gambled in the past year being at risk of gambling-related problems.
Sources: AIHW, Sumsub, Australian Institute of Family Studies
Singapore
In Singapore, gambling participation has decreased over recent years. As of the latest survey, 44% of Singaporean adults reported engaging in gambling activities, a drop from previous years. Despite this decline, the country still faces challenges with problem gambling, particularly among those involved in casino gambling and online betting. The government’s strict regulations and public education campaigns aim to mitigate these issues.
Hong Kong
In 2021, about 39.5% of Hong Kong residents reported participating in gambling activities. Popular gambling activities include the Mark Six Lottery and social gambling, such as mahjong and poker. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a slight decline, but there is concern that rates may increase now normalcy has returned.
Source: INFO.gov.hk
Thailand
In Thailand, despite the illegal status of most forms of gambling, underground gambling activities are widespread. The country does not have comprehensive official statistics on gambling addiction due to the clandestine nature of gambling. However, 64.2% of adults are estimated to gamble over the course of a year. Top forms of gambling, such as underground lotteries, illegal casinos, and football betting, significantly contribute to the issue. The lack of regulation and enforcement exacerbates the issues, making it challenging to provide precise figures and effectively address the addiction problems.
Source: The Cabin Chiang Mai
These gambling addiction statistics highlight the urgent need for effective treatment options in the region.
Breaking The Cycle And Seeking Help
Breaking free from gambling addiction is challenging, but it is possible with the right support and treatment. World-class rehabilitation centres, such as The Cabin Chiang Mai in Thailand, offer comprehensive and holistic treatment options for gambling addicts.
Peaceful Location In Nature
Located in a serene environment in Chiang Mai, our luxury rehabilitation centre utilises state-of-the-art, holistic treatment methods tailored to each individual to help them overcome gambling addiction. The natural surroundings provide a peaceful retreat away from the stresses of everyday life, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery.
Holistic and Compassionate Treatment Approach
Our team takes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing not just the addiction but also the underlying issues that contribute to it. You might be wondering how long rehab with us lasts. Our programmes are typically between four to twelve weeks. However, the duration can vary based on individual needs and the severity of the addiction. The treatment approach at The Cabin Chiang Mai includes a comprehensive mix of therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices.
Expert Counsellors and Doctors On-Site
With a team of experienced counsellors and doctors, we provide expert care and support throughout the recovery process. Our specialised knowledge and compassionate approach ensure that each individual receives personalised treatment tailored to their needs.
Luxury Facilities at a Fraction of the Cost
Despite offering world-class facilities and treatment, The Cabin Chiang Mai provides these services at a fraction of the cost compared to similar centres in the West. This makes high-quality rehabilitation accessible to more people, helping them break free from the chains of addiction.
Regain Control Of Your Life Today
The gambling addiction statistics speak for themselves. If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Contact The Cabin Chiang Mai for a consultation.
Remember, it’s never too late to break the toxic cycle and start fresh.
