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The question was submitted 20/03/2008

Subject: Gambling Problems

Hello

I am having alot of problems with compulsive gambling, although I am on meds to ease the complusiveness it tends to flare up when I am tired, angry or cranky.

Today was the worse day ever, I blew 200 dollers in the space of few hours. My ma found out and ordered me home, and she had keep ring and checking up where I am....Then at home my ma and I had massive yelling match.

I was furious and upset with tears and she was upset to the point she doesn't talk to me at night. I got very volient personlity and I told I wish I could kill those who made my mentally unwell. The school years&newport years [constant workplace and school bullying] Never let off until late adulthood

Please help and tell me what to do.....I am Getting distraught with flashbacks.Help!!

Answer from DepNet

Dear Gambling Problems,

It sounds to me as though you have at least 2 separate problems. One of them is probably compulsive gambling and the other has to do with past trauma.

You don’t mention who is managing your condition but if it’s not a specialized unit providing both medication AND talking therapy it should be. As you point out medication alone is seldom effective in these more severe problems and both individual and (or plus) group therapy are essential additions.

Stress and/or fatigue often make the problem more difficult to control so stress management and life style manipulation are also very important.

If you are with a specialized unit use all of the services they offer even if you don’t think they will help (they just might know better than you) and do not give up. If you are not with a specialized unit find one via Gamblers Anomous or Life Line or the Salvation Army or your local hospital.

The answer was published on DepNet 28/03/2008