Understanding Gambling and Internet Addiction

What is Gambling Addiction?
Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a mental health condition where a person is unable to resist the urge to gamble despite harmful consequences. It is characterized by persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior that disrupts personal, family, and work life. Gambling triggers the brain’s reward system, similar to substance addictions, creating a cycle of craving and compulsive behavior.

Symptoms of Gambling Addiction

• Preoccupation with gambling, constantly planning gambling activities

• Need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve excitement

• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling

• Restlessness or irritability when trying to reduce gambling

• Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover lost money

• Lying to family or friends to conceal gambling habits

• Risking or losing relationships, jobs, or financial stability due to gambling

Understanding Internet Addiction

Internet addiction involves excessive or poorly controlled urges to use the internet that lead to impairment or distress. It can manifest through compulsive gaming, social media use, or browsing, affecting daily life, relationships, and wellbeing. Like gambling addiction, internet addiction affects the brain’s reward pathways, creating difficulties in self-regulation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Both gambling and internet addiction arise from complex interactions of:

• Genetic and neurobiological factors affecting reward and impulse control

• Stress, trauma, or underlying mental health conditions like anxiety and depression

• Easy access and availability, especially with online gambling and digital platforms

• Social and environmental influences, including peer pressure and loneliness

Treatment Approaches

At Dr. Aakansha Kharb Neuropsychiatry Clinic, treatment for gambling and internet addiction is personalized and comprehensive:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors, develop coping skills, and reduce urges.

• Motivational Interviewing: Enhances motivation to change and supports recovery efforts.

• Medication: May be prescribed for co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or impulse control disorders.

• Support Groups: Peer support through groups like Gamblers Anonymous or internet addiction support groups provides community and accountability.

• Relapse Prevention: Strategies to recognize triggers, manage cravings, and maintain long-term recovery.

The Importance of Early Help

Gambling and internet addiction can cause significant emotional, financial, and social harm if left untreated. Early identification and intervention improve recovery chances, help repair relationships, and restore control over life.

Take the First Step

If gambling or internet use is causing distress or problems in life, professional help is available. Contact Dr. Aakansha Kharb Neuropsychiatry Clinic for confidential assessment, expert treatment, and compassionate support on the road to recovery.