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Is There A Link Between Gambling Addiction and Substance Abuse?

problem gambling, substance abuse

A new study conducted at St. Michael’s Hospital’s Center for Research on Inner City Health by research scientist Dr. Flora Matheson shows that there is a potential link between problem gambling and substance abuse. The sturdy was performed in partnership with the Center for Addiction and Mental Health, and the results can be found published online in the journal ISRN Addiction. There were two interesting results that some found surprising. The first is that there is between 10% and 20% of the population that have both problem gambling and substance abuse issues, but this population is also least likely to find effective treatment programs that can provide results with both issues. The second interesting result was that individuals who had both problem gambling and substance abuse were less responsive to typical treatment programs, leaving them with fewer resources that can help.

 

Both substance abuse and problem gambling have an impulse component, and some researchers have speculated that a single disorder may cause both issues. The treatment programs that are currently available are not targeted to treating both problems at the same time, and few who suffer from substance abuse and problem gambling are being reached. The study involved reviewing the literature on both problem gambling and substance abuse. This research showed a correlation that is high and a treatment response that is less than average. Problem gambling alone can be effectively treated in many cases, and so can substance abuse. When these two factors are combined the individual is less likely to seek treatment or find a permanent recovery. The Crossing Point has programs that can address both these issues at the same time for a better recovery.  

 

5 Important Facts About Detox and Alcohol Abuse Treatment

alcohol detox, alcohol abuse treatment

1. Each alcohol abuse treatment facility will offer different types of treatment methods and programs. Some will include on site detox while others will only take a client after this step has been completed, and that can mean going to different facilities in order to finish certain stages. During alcohol detox medical supervision can be important.

 

2. Detoxing from alcohol abuse or addiction can be tricky for some people, and those who have abused this drug for long periods or who usually consume large amounts each day may be physically addicted to alcohol. If going cold turkey is attempted without medical oversight then convulsions, seizures, and even death can occur.

 

3. The right alcohol abuse treatment program and facility will have a variety of detox tools that can help during this phase. Medications may be given to control any tremors or seizures, and there are things that can help with intense cravings. The individual will be kept stable while they eliminate all alcohol from their system, and this will leave them ready to begin the treatment and recovery phase.

 

4. The cost of detox and alcohol abuse treatment can vary greatly. Some programs may be fairly inexpensive, but these may not offer the most effective treatment methods or relapse prevention tools that are needed for a permanent recovery.

 

5. Christian alcohol abuse treatment programs often get better results than those which are not faith based, but this is only true if the individual actually believes. Luxury programs may not always give the best results if the additional costs are not used to pay for methods that have been proven to work.

 

 

 

Which Drug Treatment Programs Provide the Best Results?

drug treatment programs

Drug treatment programs can be found in all shapes, sizes, costs, and treatment philosophies, so how can you find the one program that can give you the best possible results? This step is not always easy, because almost all of the drug rehabs advertise that they are the top program or the most affordable choice. Instead of looking at the marketing materials you are better off looking at the types of treatment methods that are used and the support tools that the drug rehab offers. This will help you determine just how successful the drug treatment program is and whether it is cost effective or not. Some drug rehabs may charge a very high price, but they do not always offer the proven treatment methods or high rate of success that you need and are looking for.

 

When you evaluate drug treatment programs it is normal to look at the cost first, but there are other factors that are just as important. Tools that include anger management, nutritional counseling, and stress relief techniques can all help prevent future relapses and keep you on the right path through life. Individual and group counseling sessions are also crucial, and they help the individual work through the specific reasons for the drug abuse. The reasons for using drugs can be different with each person, so a customized treatment plan is also needed for the best possible results. At the Crossing Point we treat the individual as well as the drug abuse issues, so that you get exceptional results and a permanent recovery.   

 

Do You Have a Problem With Alcohol? Take this Quiz to Find Out!

alcohol abuse

 

  1. Does alcohol interfere with your job or school attendance?

  2. Do you drink alcohol in order to gain confidence in order to interact with others?

  3. Does your alcohol use occur when you are alone?

  4. Has your consumption of alcohol harmed your business or personal reputation?

  5. Do friends and family comment on your drinking or try to get you to stop using alcohol?

  6. Have you ever been arrested because of alcohol use?

  7. Has alcohol ever caused you to harm someone else?

  8. Does your drinking create tension in your home life and family unit?

  9. Do you regret your alcohol use at times?

  10. Have you ever blacked out or lost track of time because of alcohol consumption?

  11. Does alcohol cause financial difficulties for you?

  12. Do you feel compelled to use alcohol at specific times of the day?

  13. Do you find it difficult to go without a drink for an entire day?

  14. Has alcohol use caused you to be hospitalized?

  15. Does alcohol provide an escape from problems or stress?

  16. Has alcohol use caused you to have less motivation or ambition?

  17. Do you have legal problems caused by your alcohol consumption?

  18. Does your alcohol use interfere with the welfare of your family?

 

If you have answered yes to at least 3 of these questions then alcohol abuse or addiction treatment is needed. Alcoholism occurs when this substance is causing harm to your life or to your loved ones yet you continue to drink. The Crossing Point offers effective alcohol abuse and addiction treatment that is affordable and effective. We can help you recover and stop the drinking so you can look forward to a brighter future.