Listening is First Step in Treating Gambling Disorders
Summary
Dr. Jim Whelan, a professor and executive director at the Tennessee Institute for Gambling Education and Research, emphasises the importance of listening when treating gambling disorders. He engages patients by understanding their gambling history and behaviours, which varies from person to person. With March designated as Problem Gambling Awareness Month, it’s highlighted that millions of Americans face gambling issues, often with symptoms akin to substance addiction but without a substance involved.
Dr. Whelan and Michelle Hatfield from Kindbridge Behavioral Health underscore that gambling disorders similarly affect the brain’s reward system, leading to addiction-like behaviour. Treatment often requires understanding the patient’s gambling motivations, assessing the risk of self-harm, and addressing underlying issues through therapy methods like cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing.
Key Points
- Listening to patients is crucial for understanding their unique gambling experiences and behaviours.
- Approximately 2.5 million American adults suffer from severe gambling problems, with 5 to 8 million facing mild to moderate issues.
- Gambling disorders mimic substance addictions regarding brain chemistry and behaviour but lack a physical substance.
- Treatment often involves understanding gambling behaviours, motivations, and risks of self-harm.
- Effective therapeutic tools include cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing to support behavioural changes.
- Patients often need several encounters before committing to treatment, highlighting the importance of trust and rapport in the therapeutic process.
Why should I read this?
This article sheds light on the complexities of gambling disorders and the critical role of listening in effective treatment strategies. It provides insights into the psychological and behavioural parallels with substance abuse, emphasising the need for compassionate, tailored approaches in therapy. Understanding these issues is increasingly relevant as gambling becomes more prevalent and accessible.