July 24ththwe are celebrating international self care daywas chosen to emphasize to the international community that self-care is the cornerstone of overall health. Today, as we continue to learn more and more how important self-care is, we learn that it is more than something we do for ourselves. Taking care of our mental, physical, and emotional health not only helps us, but its side effects also help promote healthy relationships. Part of this self-care conversation is entwined with anyone who may have a gambling problem because of the stigma that comes with gambling. This weighs heavily on their self-esteem and self-esteem and can cause a lot of problems not only for problem gamblers, but also for up to nine or ten people around them.. Keep reading to learn more about the connection between gambling problems, health, and the stigma you feel when seeking recovery resources, as well as helpful self-care tips.
The effects of disorderly gambling are much more widespread than many people assume. Those suffering from gambling problems are more likely to suffer from stress-related symptoms such as sleep deprivation, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. [1] moreover, Problem Gambling can have a negative impact on mental health as it can exacerbate or cause depression and anxiety and cause substance use disorders. [2] Such perceived prejudice can lead to internal conflict and hinder efforts to seek help.
Compulsive gambling also has social implications as it can strain relationships, lead to legal troubles and threaten job security. [3] While these issues are not one-size-fits-all and individuals with gambling addiction may experience different effects, each emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-care and taking proactive steps to protect one’s health.
One of the things that can keep people from taking care of themselves is the stigma associated with gambling problems and recovery. In general, people may not seek help with problem gambling for fear of being criticized or labeled as a “problem gambler” by others. [4] In addition, there are gender-specific prejudices. For example, women may be viewed as caregivers or irresponsible to suffer from gambling problems. shame These women acknowledge their struggles and prevent them from receiving the care they deserve. [5] For men, they fear the embarrassment and shame that seeking recovery resources can bring. [6] Because society assumes that men are strong and can stop and control themselves, men are perceived as: Failure. It is important to remember that there is no shame in asking for help and the best thing anyone can do for themselves and their loved ones is to protect and promote self-care and wellness through recovery from gambling problems.
So what exactly is self-care?A first step to improvement for those struggling with gambling problems self care needs your only certainty, 888- Admit it. This helpline is 24/7, multilingual and completely free to call, text or chat to help anyone who may have a gambling problem or their loved ones take the first step towards a better future. Here are some other tips for practicing self-care:
- exercise regularly
- healthy diet
- Prioritize good sleep cycles
- try a new hobby
- Participate in relaxing activities
- goal setting
- practice gratitude
- stay connected with the community [7]
This International Self-Care Day is a great time to take a positive step in the right direction. To overcome gambling addiction problems and build a life full of joy, it’s important to take care of yourself, whether it’s seeking recovery resources or any of the helpful tips above.
- Matheson, Flora I., et al. “Using Self-Control Strategies for Problem Gambling: A Review of Scope” Biomed CentralApril 29, 2019, bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-019-6755-8.
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- Hinn, Nellilly, et al. “Prejudice and self-prejudice against problem gambling…” taylor & frances online15 November 2015, www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14459795.2015.1092566.
- “Female Gamblers and Mental Health” algae12 May 2022, www.algamus.org/blog/ Female-gamblers-mental-health.
- Baxter, Allison, et al. “Gender differences in perceived prejudices and barriers to seeking help with gambling problems.” Addiction Behavior Report3 November 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5845950/#:~:text=Men%20are%20less%20likely%20to,lose%20an%20 important%20social%20network.
- “Care for Mental Health” National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health.
