Derby Week and Addictions

Let's see, how many addictions can get triggered during Derby Week??   Well, the two that come to mind quickest are gambling and alcoholism.  Those two are definitely "givens."  Derby week is all about horse racing and "winning big."  It can, of course, also be about losing big, loosing your shirt, and blowing lots of money you don't really have.  Maybe I'm just down on gambling but it has also been a very scary proposition to me, especially if you have an addictive personality and like the idea of "instant wealth" with out good old-fashioned work.  Of course it appeals to people.  When advertisers come up with phrases like "somebody's got to win, why not you?" it's bound to suck lots of people in.  In preparation for Derby Week, I thought you might like to see some of the signs and symptoms of problem gambling...just in case you're looking forward to it too much:

Myths & Facts about Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling

MYTH: You have to gamble everyday to be a problem gambler.
FACT: A problem gambler may gamble frequently or infrequently. Gambling is a problem if it causes problems.

MYTH: Problem gambling is not really a problem if the gambler can afford it.FACT: Problems caused by excessive gambling are not just financial. Too much time spent on gambling can lead to relationship breakdown and loss of important friendships.

MYTH: Partners of problem gamblers often drive problem gamblers to gamble.FACT: Problem gamblers often rationalize their behavior. Blaming others is one way to avoid taking responsibility for their actions, including what is needed to overcome the problem.

MYTH: If a problem gambler builds up a debt, you should help them take care of it.FACT: Quick fix solutions may appear to be the right thing to do. However, bailing the gambler out of debt may actually make matters worse by enabling gambling problems to continue.

Adapted from: Chris Lobsinger's Problem Gambling

Each day this week, I will focus on a different addiction that could be triggered this week just in case you know that you're prone to addictions!  Let me know if you want to talk about this during your session.