In addition to the more well-known withdrawal symptoms associated with drug and alcohol addiction, there are also certain gambling withdrawal symptoms that can occur in those who are addicted to gambling as well. Because of the lack of information on this topic, many people suffering from gambling addiction in rehab aren’t aware that they are experiencing withdrawal symptoms in the first place, and may not know how to cope with these symptoms once they do realise they’re experiencing them.
Depression
Many people who suffer from gambling addiction also suffer from depression. This is because the act of gambling can be a form of self-medication. When someone is depressed, they often turn to activities that make them feel good, such as gambling, in order to escape their negative feelings. However, this only provides temporary relief and can actually make the depression worse in the long run.
Irritability
It’s not uncommon for those in gambling withdrawal to experience extreme irritability. This is because the neurotransmitters in their brain are out of balance, and they’re trying to cope with the lack of dopamine. The anxiety and stress can also contribute to feelings of irritability.
Anxiety
For many people, gambling is a way to relieve anxiety. But for those who develop a gambling addiction, the opposite is true. Compulsive gamblers can suffer from intense anxiety when they try to quit. This is because they’re used to the release of dopamine that comes with gambling. When they don’t get that hit, they can feel anxious and irritable.
Concentration problems
For compulsive gamblers, gambling is all-consuming. It’s not just a hobby or something they do for fun. It’s an obsession. So when they try to quit, they often find it hard to concentrate on anything else. This can lead to problems at work, school, and home.
Suicidal thoughts and feelings
Though it may seem like gambling is just a fun pastime, for some it can quickly turn into an addiction. And like any addiction, when compulsive gamblers try to quit they can experience withdrawal symptoms that can be debilitating and even life-threatening. One of the most serious symptoms is suicidal thoughts and feelings. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, it’s important to get help at a private rehab right away.
Mood swings
When you’re addicted to gambling, the act of gambling itself becomes a source of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and pleasure centres in the brain. So when gamblers are in the throws of their addiction, they’re constantly chasing that high. When they stop gambling, they can experience intense mood swings as their brain tries to readjust.
