Addiction Treatment

Why Do People Get Addicted to Gambling?

Ian Young

26 Jun, 2024

05 min read

Why do people get addicted to gambling

The question “why do people get addicted to gambling?” is a complex one. It involves a mix of psychological, biological, and social factors. In this blog, we will explore these factors to understand what drives people to develop a gambling addiction.

If you are addicted to gambling and want to stop, speak with Holina Rehab on (0) 626 418 369. Our beachside addiction treatment center in Koh Phangan, Thailand can provide you with the perfect environment to recover from your gambling addiction.

The Psychological Pull of Gambling

There is a powerful psychological element when it comes to gambling addiction. There are a few reasons why gambling exerts a heavy influence on the psyche.

The Thrill of Gambling

One of the primary reasons why people get addicted to gambling is the thrill that comes with placing a bet. The anticipation of a potential win can create an adrenaline rush that is highly addictive. This excitement can become a powerful motivator, compelling you to keep gambling in pursuit of that elusive big win.

Escaping Reality

Gambling can also serve as an escape from reality. If you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, gambling can provide a temporary distraction from your problems. The excitement and immersion in the game can make you forget about your worries, if only for a short while. This escape can become a crutch, leading you to gamble more frequently as a way to cope with life’s challenges.

Cognitive Distortions

Cognitive distortions play a significant role in why people get addicted to gambling. Beliefs such as the “gambler’s fallacy” – the idea that past losses somehow increase the chances of future wins – can skew your perception of gambling outcomes. Near-misses, where you almost win, can also trick your brain into thinking that a big win is just around the corner, encouraging you to keep playing.

The Biological Basis of Gambling Addiction

The answer to “why do people get addicted to gambling” also has several answers which are related to our biology.

The Dopamine Effect

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. When you gamble and win, your brain releases a surge of dopamine, creating feelings of happiness and satisfaction. This release reinforces the behavior, making you want to experience it again. Over time, the brain starts to crave this dopamine rush, leading to compulsive gambling.

Genetic Predisposition

Research suggests that some people may have a genetic predisposition to addiction, including gambling. If you have a family history of addiction, you might be more susceptible to developing a gambling problem. Certain genetic markers are linked to impulsivity and reward-seeking behaviors, both of which can contribute to gambling addiction.

Brain Function and Structure

Studies using brain imaging techniques have shown that the brains of people addicted to gambling function similarly to those of individuals with substance use disorders. These similarities include changes in areas of the brain involved in decision-making, impulse control, and reward processing. This overlap suggests that gambling addiction shares common neurological pathways with other forms of addiction.

Social and Environmental Influences

People with gambling addiction may also be affected by social and environmental influences, which cause them to start and continue gambling.

Peer Pressure and Social Acceptance

Your social environment can significantly impact your gambling behavior. If you are surrounded by friends or family members who gamble, you might be more likely to start gambling yourself. Social acceptance and normalization of gambling can lower your defenses and make it seem like a harmless activity. This influence can be particularly strong in cultures or communities where gambling is a common social activity.

Accessibility and Convenience

The rise of online gambling has made it easier than ever to gamble. With just a few clicks, you can place bets from the comfort of your own home. This convenience can lead to increased gambling frequency and the development of a gambling addiction. The anonymity of online gambling can also make it easier to hide your behavior from others, further exacerbating the problem.

Financial Stress

Financial difficulties can also drive people to gamble in the hopes of winning money to solve their problems. The lure of a big win can be especially tempting if you’re struggling to make ends meet. Unfortunately, this often leads to a vicious cycle where you gamble more to try and recoup losses, resulting in even greater financial strain.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping gambling can cause people to feel gambling withdrawal symptoms, akin to those experienced by people who stop using alcohol and drugs. Chronic gamblers continue gambling to stave off these feelings.

The Escalation and Consequences of Gambling Addiction

Gambling, like many addictions, often starts off fairly innocuously. Some people can have a flutter once in a while and then not think about gambling. But a certain section of the population then goes on to fall in to gambling addiction.

From Casual to Compulsive

For many, gambling starts as an occasional activity but gradually becomes more frequent and intense. As you continue to chase the high of winning, you might start to bet larger amounts of money and take bigger risks. This escalation can lead to significant financial losses, strained relationships, and a host of other negative consequences.

The Vicious Cycle

Once you become addicted to gambling, breaking free can be incredibly challenging. The addiction creates a vicious cycle where the more you gamble, the more you lose, and the more you feel compelled to keep gambling to recoup your losses. This cycle is often fueled by feelings of guilt, shame, and desperation, making it difficult to seek help.

Impact on Personal Life

Gambling addiction can have severe repercussions on your personal life. It can lead to financial ruin, relationship problems, and deteriorating mental and physical health. The stress and anxiety associated with gambling addiction can affect your performance at work, strain your interactions with family and friends, and lead to a sense of isolation and hopelessness.

Breaking the Cycle: Seeking Help and Recovery

Not all is lost, no matter how heavily addicted you are to gambling. There are ways that you can stop gambling and stay stopped for good.

Acknowledging the Problem

The first step towards recovery is acknowledging that you have a gambling problem. This can be difficult, especially if you feel ashamed or embarrassed about your behavior. However, recognizing the issue is crucial for seeking help and starting the journey towards recovery.

Treatment Options

There are various treatment options available for gambling addiction, including therapy, support groups, and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in addressing the cognitive distortions and behaviors associated with gambling addiction. Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, provide a community of individuals who understand what you’re going through and can offer encouragement and guidance.

Building a Support System

Recovery from gambling addiction is a long-term process that requires a strong support system. This includes friends, family, and healthcare professionals who can provide emotional support and practical assistance. Building a support system can help you stay accountable, avoid triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Developing Healthy Habits

Replacing gambling with healthier activities can help you break the cycle of addiction. This might include pursuing hobbies, exercising, or engaging in social activities that don’t involve gambling. Developing new routines and habits can provide alternative sources of pleasure and fulfillment, making it easier to resist the urge to gamble.

Holina Rehab for Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction causes people to lose everything. And while an addiction to gambling can feel like a hopeless situation when you are in it, recovery is always possible. At Holina Rehab, our gambling addiction program can help you get to the root cause of your compulsion to gamble.

Finding out why you gamble and addressing the underlying problem offers you the best opportunity to stop gambling for good. For more information on how we can help you quit gambling, contact us today on (0) 626 418 369.

About Me

Ian Young

Ian Young is the Global Manager at Holina Care Centres in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Ian oversees the rehabilitation programs that blend the 12 Step model, NLP, and various evidence-based therapies with holistic healing practices. Holina Rehab treats addictions, trauma, anxiety, and depression, offering comprehensive care in a serene resort environment. Ian, a charismatic speaker and author of “It’s Not About Me,” leverages his own recovery journey from addiction to inspire and guide others toward a fulfilling, addiction-free life.

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Residential Daily Timeline

At Holina, we offer a diverse range of treatments and activities designed to help you reconnect with your true self. While each day brings new experiences, we adhere to a regular daily schedule from Monday to Friday to provide structure and support. Below is a general outline of what a typical day might look like during your stay at Holina. Please note that this is a rough guide, as specific activities may vary.

8AM

8:3 AM

9AM

10 AM

1PM

2PM

6PM

8PM

8AM

Morning Meditation

At Holina we do this in 30 minute sessions so our guests can get used to the experience first hand.

Daily Schedule Highlights

Morning Activities

Meditation, Yoga, or Swimming: Begin your day with a refreshing and energizing session designed to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Meditation calms the mind, promoting clarity. Yoga provides a balance of physical exercise and meditation, promoting relaxation and flexibility. Swimming offers a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health and muscle tone, while also providing a soothing environment to clear your mind and reduce stress.

Therapeutic Sessions

Didactic Group: Participate in educational sessions focused on understanding love addiction and developing effective coping strategies. These groups provide essential knowledge about the nature of addiction, relapse prevention techniques, and practical tools for managing stress and triggers.

Psychology and Behavior: Engage in therapy sessions that address underlying psychological issues and promote positive behavioral changes. These sessions may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps to identify and change negative thought patterns, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

Family and Community Support

Family Constellation: Explore the dynamics of your family relationships and how they impact your addiction and recovery journey. This therapy helps to identify and resolve family conflicts, fostering healthier communication and stronger support systems.

Men and Women’s Circles: Join gender-specific groups that provide a safe and supportive space to share experiences and offer mutual support. These circles encourage open dialogue about gender-specific issues, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Creative and Holistic Therapies

Psychodrama: Experience a therapeutic approach that uses guided drama and role-playing to explore emotional experiences. Psychodrama allows you to express and process complex emotions in a safe and structured environment, promoting insight and healing.

Singing Bowls and Drumming Circle: Participate in sound therapy sessions that promote relaxation and emotional release. The vibrations from singing bowls and the rhythmic beats of drumming can help to reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance overall well-being.

Wellness and Recovery Support

Ice Bath and Sauna: Enhance your physical health and promote detoxification with ice bath and sauna sessions. These practices, when incorporated into a holistic program of recovery, can help support your recovery from love addiction.

How Our Drug Addiction Treatment Works

Holina Rehab treats addictions, often accompanied by trauma, anxiety and depression. We don’t have a fixed start date. The program begins as soon as you arrive.

We use the proven western 12 Step model of treatment, mixed with NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), and various other talking therapy strategies, combined with our holistic healing therapies and mixed with mindfulness practices, which originate from Thai Buddhism and other Eastern Spiritual practices.

We have Counsellors, Coaches, Mentors, Therapists, Psychotherapists, Trainers and even a Monk on our diverse and experienced team.

Recent Reviews of Holina Rehab

"I do not Share this message lightly....its given me MY LIFE BACK...WHAT A GIFT TO BE GIVEN ONES LIFE BACK AGAIN..CAUSE OF SOME SUBSTANCE OR OTHER ISSUE...and WITH GOD BEING MY WITNESS..and MOSTLY THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE OF THE STAFF and THE STAFF GIVING THEMSELVES TO OTHERS 24/7 SUPPORT TO ALL OUR NEEDS...THE HOLINA 12 STEP RESORT.IS ONE OF KIND....CARING OUT THE MESSAGE OF BILL AND BOB...and SO MUCH MORE.......ITS NOT JUST A RESORT BUT A BIG FAMILY...WHO ALL HAVE UNDERSTOOD, RELASPED. OR HAVE BEEN THERE BEFORE...IN THESE DARK PLACE AND ISSUES....BUT HAVE FOUND A WAY OUT....THE KEY THE 12 STEPS.....THE STAFF FOR ME ARE ALL SENT BY GOD....which I CALL THEM ANGEL'S...I WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO THANK YOU ALL 4 ALL YOU HAVE DONE.....BUT WHAT I HAVE NOW...CAN ONLY BE GIVEN AWAY......I AM HERE TO SERVE THOSE IN NEED and TO CONTINUE TO DO GODS WORK...as one wants to call HIM....LOVE YOU ALL....MY GOD MAY YOU BLESS IAN FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE WITH YOUR LIFE..OTHERS LIFES...SAVING LIVES..AND TO CONTINUE TO CHANGE AND SAVE PEOPLES LIVES......I WILL BE ..FOR EVERY GRATEFUL JACK.....YOU ARE THE TRUE EXAMPLE OF THE 12 STEPS.....LOVE YOU BROTHER.."

"Holina is Wonderful! As a Rehab Center, the Staff are exceptional, all well trained, kind and give personal attention to all their clients. And Holina's facility is second to None, really the nicest rehab I've ever seen, overlooking the Sea, with two beautiful pools, excellent food and accommodation, one feels the luxury of the Koh Phangan. But most importantly is the exceptional personal treatment the clients receive . One on one counselor sessions, many group sessions throughout the day and personal guidance and help throughout the recovery journey. Holina is the Best Rehab Center in Thailand, in my opinion and Highly recommended!"

"Holina was such an incredible experience for me that opened my eyes to so many holistic wellness practices I still use today. The staff were amazing people and the location of the resort is breathtakingly beautiful. I’ve made friends for life and cleared so much emotional baggage from attending. Thanks Holina 👏"

"A brilliant place to get back in touch with oneself. My experience at Holina was a positive one, I found that the staff adapted to my needs and created a program uniquely suited to my trauma and recovery needs. The staff themselves are committed, educated and experienced. The accommodations are private and comfortable. Cell service and WIFI are top notch. Every personal need was met during my stay. My observation of Holina is that the entire team endeavours to create a warm, welcoming holistic atmosphere with a personalized touch. The general ethos of Holina differs from the normative institutional feel of a traditional western treatment centre and the frequency of one on one therapy sessions is unmatched, so the economic value far surpassed my expectations. It was exactly what I needed. Would recommend to anyone seeking therapeutic care for trauma and or substance use disorder."

"I started my recovery journey at Holina after attending other rehabs in the past and I couldn't have been happier with the level of treatment that I received. The staff are all amazing people who really cared about my needs and wants as a client. The facilities are great as is the food and the programme itself was perfect for me. The other rehabs that I attended didn't even come close to the level of care and treatment that Holina provided. Thank you so much Holina!"

"An amazing and unique treatment and rehab center. The center has a very professional treatment team. Everyone at Holina is matched with a personal program and made to feel that he is the most important to them. The center teaches and provides tools for life such as yoga, meditation and dealing with different situations in life. I recommend going to a center for addiction treatment and treatment to get back to yourself."

"By far the best rehabilitation centre I have been to. The level of care is second to none. I was very nervous attending rehab but all my fears were gone as soon as I met the team of counsellors, support staff and clients. The location is absolutely beautiful and accomodation is extremely comfortable. I had an amazing experience there and learned a lot about myself and the disease of addiction. They gave me life long tools to live a great life free from addiction. I would recommend to anyone to go there. Thank you, Holina from the bottom of my heart."

"Holina has been a life changing experience for me. I've been to 4 rehabs in my life and this has been by far the most profound experience I've had. This type of treatment simply couldn't be found in UK based rehabs. I came in on a huge amount of psychiatric and illicit meds. I was safely weaned off all the drugs I was abusing whilst having the support structure i needed around me at all times. Whilst the location is paradise, the programme itself is very structured and reasonably strict, which is exactly what I needed. Its helped me push my limits from a socially anxious man who isolated, to a (tanned!) man who looks forward to speaking and engaging in communities. I've conquered some real fears in the 11 weeks I stayed in Holina. And I got the opportunity to make some of the best friends of my life, and grow into someone I didn't think possible. Holina gave me the gift of optimism and hope for the future which is something i've never had so I'll always be grateful for that. I know I have a lot of work to do still, but Holina has given me the best possible start on my journey of sobriety."

"Holina has a very unique and professional way of working with residents. There is a multitude of different interventions that are used in working with those people who are residents. They have 2 qualified Psychologists, a number of case managers, nurse, breath work, TRE, meditation, inner walk, Muay Thai, swimming, yoga to name a few. Each person has their own case manager with an individual care plan, that in conjunction works with ensuring the right interventions for the right person."

Holina Youth Village

Holina Village is a safe and contained space designed for young people from the age of 14 to 26, who are choosing to deal with their additions.

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Ancient Spiritual Retreat

Specialising in healing trauma and expanding our spirit through our beautiful retreat in the ancient city of Caesarea Israel.

The Holina Holistic Treatments

Holina’s holistic approach brings to life a broad and healthy view that really meets the 6 primary human needs – certainty, significance, variety, love/connection, growth and contribution.

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol use disorder is a pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol or continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems. This disorder also involves having to drink more to get the same effect or having withdrawal symptoms when you rapidly decrease or stop drinking. Alcohol use disorder includes a level of drinking that’s sometimes called alcoholism.

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive, or uncontrollable, drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences and brain changes, which can be prolonged.These changes in the brain can lead to harmful behaviors seen in people who use drugs.

Love Addiction

Love addiction is often mistaken for genuine romantic love, but it involves a deeper, more compulsive attachment. People suffering from love addiction may constantly seek new relationships or engage in multiple relationships simultaneously, driven by a need for emotional or physical connection. They might cling to unavailable partners or even resort to stalking behaviors due to insecurities or desperation.

Depression Treatment

Depression is a serious disorder that can have significant consequences on your quality of life and that of your family around you. Depression will usually get worse over time unless it’s treated. The results of untreated depressive disease in emotional, behavioral, and mental health problems that affect every area of your life. Start your depression treatment journey at Holina, Koh Phangan

Sex Addiction

Sex addiction, also known as compulsive sexual behavior, is a condition characterized by an overwhelming preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviors that are difficult to control. This addiction often leads to engaging in sexual activities despite negative consequences, such as harm to personal relationships, career, or emotional well-being.

Gambling Addiction

Problem gambling takes a severe toll on both mental and physical health. Those struggling with this addiction often face depression, migraines, stress-related disorders, and other anxiety-driven issues. As with other addictions, the consequences of gambling can lead to overwhelming feelings of despair and hopelessness, sometimes driving people to consider suicide.

The Holina Residential Program

At Holina Rehab, our holistic approach addresses the six primary human needs-certainty, significance, variety, love/connection, growth, and contribution-creating a comprehensive and healthy framework for recovery. This approach allows us to effectively tackle the full range of symptoms related to addiction and trauma.