Virtual gambling addiction is increasing in Alanya!
Addiction to virtual gambling and betting has become a significant problem today. Clinical psychologist Gülderen Akdağ explained treatment methods to Dim TV.
With the advancement of digital technologies, virtual gambling and betting addiction has become increasingly widespread. Recently, the issue came to the forefront again amid investigations into allegations involving celebrities promoting illegal betting. Speaking to Dim TV, clinical psychologist Gülderen Akdağ explained: “Addiction is when a person continues a behavior or substance use despite knowing it is harmful. It is one of the pressing problems of our time and is significantly increasing. At some point, the individual begins to lose control.”
TREATMENT FOR GAMBLING ADDICTION IS POSSIBLE
Akdağ discussed the effects of gambling addiction on individuals and treatment methods: “Gambling addiction has become more common today, partly because it has become easier. We now face the concept of ‘virtual gambling addiction.’ For a person to hesitate, a task or activity must have some level of difficulty. In the past, gambling required leaving the house and setting up an environment. Now, it is easily accessible at everyone’s fingertips, creating a sense of comfort and convenience.
Gambling triggers a high release of dopamine, the reward chemical. In daily life, we receive dopamine from activities like walking or engaging in hobbies, but in normal amounts. Gambling, however, causes an excessively high release of dopamine. Over time, the brain stops producing dopamine naturally. Gamblers may exhibit irritability and dislike being disturbed. They may lie, borrow money, and experience strained relationships with family and spouses.
To change this, it is crucial to remove the factors or individuals in their environment that encourage gambling. Family counseling and couple therapy can also be beneficial. Support from family, especially spouses, plays a critical role in facilitating change. The spouses of gambling addicts often suffer as much as the addicts themselves.
Initially, it is vital for the individual to want to change. Addicts often deny their problem, saying, ‘I’m not addicted, it’s just one time, I can quit whenever I want.’ Treatment is possible and includes both medication and psychotherapy.”
