Addressing gambling addiction requires thoughtful, sustained work, and a pill alone cannot replace that effort. Psychotherapy stands out as the most effective approach in helping people break free from the urge to gamble, according to AI Bekhtereva Vadim Gagin at the Institute of the Human Brain.
Group psychotherapy often yields the strongest results in treating gambling disorders. The sense of shared experience and mutual support among participants creates a powerful healing environment that others in recovery can rely on.
“When individuals with gambling problems sit together, they witness peers who have faced similar challenges. A person may recognize their own dependence more clearly after seeing how someone else manages similar impulses. This peer interaction and exchange of coping strategies are critical components of progress. Group psychotherapy frequently leads to meaningful change across various addictions”, explained Gagin to the media outlet socialbites.ca.
Experts also emphasize that help is beneficial for families, not just the person who gambles. Relatives can participate in dedicated support groups where they learn to understand the behaviors and triggers of a loved one who gambles or spends at events. These groups offer practical guidance on how to respond to actions and how to set healthier boundaries that support the recovery process.
Research highlights the long-term impact of poverty on early brain development, underscoring the importance of early intervention and sustained support for vulnerable children. By addressing environmental stressors early, communities can help reduce the risk factors associated with addictive behaviors later in life.