Do I Have a Gambling Problem?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition lists 9 criteria associated with problematic gambling behavior, only four of which must be exhibited over the course of a 12-month period for the individual in question to be considered a problematic gambler. These behaviors are paraphrased as:
- The need to increase the bet in order to achieve the same level of satisfaction or excitement
- Experiences irritability or restlessness as a result of trying to cut back or stop gambling activity
- Has to tried to cut back or stop gambling and can’t
- Is preoccupied with the act of gambling, with finding money with which to gamble, or with reliving past gambling experiences
- Uses gambling to escape or cope with negative feelings like guilt, depression, anxiety, or helplessness
- Uses gambling loses as a reason to bit bigger or more often
- Lies about the frequency of gambling activity or the amount of money being gambled
- Gambling has interfered with relationships, work, school, or other important life activities
- Resorts on the financial resources of others to help assuage gambling debts
While the severity of a gambling problem can be explained by the number of criteria met (the higher the number of relevant criteria the higher the severity), most Assurant Health compulsive gambling treatment programs are equipped to deal with gambling problems of all shapes and sizes, meaning it’s never too early or too late to get help.
How Can I Treat My Gambling Addiction?
If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s important to evaluate your Assurant Health compulsive gambling treatment coverage as soon as possible so you can find the help you need. While you may or may not be able to find a facility the specializes specifically in gambling addiction, any mental health professional or program that deals with behavioral or cognitive compulsions (sexual addiction or Internet addiction, for instance) will be equipped to understand your situation and begin the process of rehabilitation.
What Will My Gambling Addiction Treatment Cost?
Until we determine the extent of your Assurant Health gambling addiction coverage and pinpoint the type of facility and treatment that fits your needs, it’s next to impossible to put a dollar amount on your recovery. The cost of an inpatient facility is greater than the cost of outpatient treatment, but the support and supervision is greater as well. There are many factors to consider when weighing out the financial impact of addiction treatment, but in the end the only thing that truly matters is the promise of a healthy, addiction-free future.