Having a gambling problem is a serious problem, and can lead to a variety of negative effects. These effects can include compulsive gambling, debt, and even suicide.
Compulsive gamblers incur debt
Getting caught up in the gambling frenzy can be a stumbling block. It’s tempting to gamble away all your savings and take out loans on credit cards. Using credit cards to gamble puts you and your family at risk. It is not surprising that a recent study found that compulsive gamblers are more likely to file for bankruptcy than non-gamblers.
For example, a study compiled by the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling found that in 2014, the state saw 14,731 calls about gambling-related issues. The average debt of a compulsive gambler was $47,000. And while that may seem high, it is no small feat to accumulate so much debt.
The same study found that the total employment cost for a casino gambler was $2,940. It may be worth noting that these numbers are derived from the bad debts of problem gamblers involved in bankruptcy court proceedings.
The best part is that a debt management plan can be put in place to help you pay off your debts. In Wisconsin, there are several options available to you. Several nonprofit credit counseling agencies offer free services and can help you create a budget and suggest programs to help you get out of debt.
Compulsive gamblers resort to criminal behavior
Those who are addicted to gambling experience a wide range of negative social and financial consequences. These include financial problems, criminal behavior, social isolation, and lost career opportunities. Gambling can also interfere with an individual’s health and well-being.
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is a non-profit organization that promotes prevention, research, and treatment of pathological gambling. The organization also encourages the development of public awareness about pathological gambling.
Problem gambling is a common addiction that can be treated through cognitive-behavioural treatments. This approach tries to alter gambling behavior by targeting internal and external triggers.
Cognitive-behavioural treatments include relaxation, assertiveness, and problem-solving. They also involve identifying high-risk situations and finding effective coping strategies. Some of these interventions have been shown to work.
Problem gambling can affect a person’s work and family relationships. Gambling during work can interfere with productivity and lead to absenteeism, impaired working relationships, and termination of employment. Gambling can also lead to homelessness. In addition, gambling can lead to a variety of health problems, including substance use disorders and anxiety disorders.
Compulsive gamblers get divorced
Having a compulsive gambler in your life can lead to a lot of emotional strain. It can affect your marriage, your children, and your finances. There are some things you can do to protect yourself and your family from this problem.
The first thing you should do is to open a bank account in your name only. This will help you avoid becoming a victim of your spouse’s gambling habit.
You might also want to consider a financial restraining order. This order prevents your spouse from gambling in your name. You may also want to look into a divorce attorney. A lawyer will be able to deal with debt collectors and protect your credit rating.
You can also check your credit report for signs of gambling activity. Your spouse may have been hiding something. They may be gambling in order to cover up other problems.
Gambling may also have an impact on child custody. Children are often exposed to frequent tears, yelling matches, and money problems.
Compulsive gamblers commit suicide
Despite a lack of official recognition of a link between problem gambling and suicide, recent research suggests that it is a serious problem. It is estimated that up to one in five problem gamblers attempt suicide. The problem is that the links between gambling and suicide are difficult to prove. However, further research is needed to ensure that the link is strong.
Researchers have found that problem gamblers are more likely than non-problem gamblers to have thought about suicide in the past year. Moreover, problem gamblers are less likely to receive support from others and are more likely to feel isolated. They also have a higher risk of engaging in completed suicide.
Problem gamblers are also more likely to have contact with the criminal justice system. They are often referred to the police by family members and friends. These police officers are aware of the collateral damage caused by problem gambling, but may not be aware of the significant suicide risk that problem gamblers bear.
