Gabriela Štiková

Addiction impacts on different areas of an individual's and their family's life (e.g. disrupted family relationships, loss of employment, social impacts, etc.), so returning to normal life after gambling addiction treatment can be challenging. It does not end with treatment. You need to think about how to maintain the positive behavioural and lifestyle changes you have gained during treatment. Here are some steps and strategies that can help you stay on track and prevent relapse.Keep your post-treatment care planBefore leaving a treatment facility, it's important to have a clear post-treatment care plan. This plan should include regular meetings with a therapist who specializes in addiction or attending support groups or arranged check-ins with the treatment facility. Maintaining regular contact with professionals can provide valuable support and guidance after you leave a treatment facility. There are also 'treatment centres' that provide support for people who have been through treatment and need help to return to a full life. Some facilities organise regular educational sessions, social events, therapeutic family sessions, etc. for their clients as part of their recovery.Create a support networkSupport from family, friends and people who have been through a similar experience is indispensable. Sharing your experiences and feelings with people who understand you can greatly reduce feelings of isolation and help you stay on track. Support groups for gambling addicts, such as Gamblers Anonymous, offer structured meetings and peer support.Identify and avoid triggersAn important step in relapse prevention is to identify situations, feelings or people that led you to gamble in the past. Once identified, it is crucial to develop strategies to avoid or deal with these triggers without resorting to gambling.Focus on a healthy lifestylePhysical activity, a healthy diet and getting enough sleep are the building blocks for maintaining good mental health. Regular exercise can reduce stress and improve mood, which can be especially helpful during recovery.Set new goalsSetting realistic goals and working towards achieving them can be powerfully motivating and help you maintain a positive direction. Whether it's professional ambitions, educational goals or personal projects, it's important to have something you can work towards that fills them with a sense of meaningfulness for you.Learn new ways to manage stressGambling addiction often serves as an unhealthy way to deal with stress and anxiety. Learning healthy stress management strategies such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can be key to maintaining a life free of gaming addiction in the long run.Look for meaningful activitiesFinding activities that are meaningful and satisfying to you can help fill the void left by gambling. Whether it's volunteering, hobbies or spending time with family, it's important to find ways to enjoy life without the need to gamble.Returning to a normal life after treatment for gambling addiction is a process that takes time, patience and a strong will. Remember, you are not alone in this. Take advantage of the resources available, seek support, and work on yourself every day. Your efforts will pay off. You will regain control of your life and find a path to lasting recovery.

Entering the world of psychotherapy in the context of addiction treatment can be very rewarding for you and those around you. Psychotherapy is one way to take the helm of your life back into your own hands. In this article, I would like to give you an overview of how psychotherapy helps in the gambling treatment process, what principles it is based on and what you can expect from a psychotherapy session.Let's start with a metaphor. Imagine gambling addiction as a dark forest in which you get lost. All around you are tempting paths that promise instant gratification but actually lead you deeper into the woods. In this case, psychotherapy acts as a compass or guide, if you will, to help you find your way out, back to yourself and to a better life.The principles of psychotherapy in the treatment of gambling addiction are different, but they all share one common goal: to help the individual develop strategies to overcome their addiction. The key is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can open up and explore your addiction without fear of judgment.One of the key aspects is recognizing and processing the emotions that lead to addiction. Many people turn to acting out as a way to escape a stressful situation, anxiety, depression or other negative emotions. In psychotherapy, you learn to identify these triggers and develop healthier ways to deal with these emotions.Another important element is self-awareness. This involves understanding your own thought patterns that may be perpetuating or reinforcing the addiction. Psychotherapy helps you recognize and reframe these negative or destructive thoughts into more constructive and positive ones.So what can you expect from a psychotherapy session?First and foremost, a safe space for open dialogue. Your first session will likely involve a lot of questions about your history of gambling, the life circumstances that contributed to your addiction, and your goals in therapy. The therapist will provide you with a structured framework, but you are the one who determines the direction of therapy.Subsequent sessions will focus more on identifying and processing emotions, developing new skills and strategies for coping with addiction, and strengthening your ability to resist the urge to play. You may encounter challenges and moments of resistance during this process, which is completely normal. The important thing to remember is that every step forward, even the smallest, is a victory.Psychotherapy offers a way out of the dark forest of gaming addiction and back to yourself. It is a journey of discovery, learning and growth. The key to its success is your own motivation and willingness to work on yourself. Although the journey can be challenging, the reward of a freer and fuller life is well worth it.

Gambling addiction, often referred to as compulsive gambling, is a serious problem that can have devastating effects on the individual and their loved ones. Recognizing the right time to seek treatment is key to recovery and restoring a healthy lifestyle.How to recognise a betting addictionHere are the critical moments when professional help should be considered:Loss of control: If you are no longer in control of your gambling and the time and money you invest in it, it's time to seek help.Debt and financial problems: Running into debt or other financial problems because of your gaming is a clear indicator of the need for treatment.Neglect: When gaming starts to take priority over work, school or family responsibilities, it's important to intervene.Isolation and loss of interest: If you withdraw from friends and family or lose interest in past hobbies because of gaming, you should consider seeking help.Continuing despite negative consequences: If you are continuing to play despite the obvious negative effects on your health, relationships or financial situation, it is time to make a change.Gambling questionnairesAre you wondering if your gambling goes beyond healthy limits and can become an addiction? Do you want to find out if your gambling behaviour may be having a negative impact on your life or the lives of your loved ones? Try the simple Lie/Bet questionnaires or the self-assessment questionnaire.Lie/Bet QuestionnaireHave you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?Have you ever lied to people who are important to you about how long you have played and how much you have lost?If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you probably have a gambling problem.Self-evaluation questionnairePlease answer the following questions: NEVER - SOMETIMES - VERY OFTENHave you ever gambled more than you could afford to gamble?Have you needed to play with more and more money or more and more often to get the thrill you wanted?Did you come back the next day to win back the money you lost?Have other people ever criticized your playing or told you that you had a problem with your playing, whether it was true or not?Has gambling caused you or your family any financial problems?Have you ever felt guilty about your gambling or the consequences of your gambling?Have you borrowed money or sold any possessions or used money intended for other purposes to raise money to play?If you have answered VERY OFTEN at least 1 time or AT LEAST 3 times, there are clear signs that gaming is beginning or has begun to take over your life. (Source Lending Hands o.p.s. - Information brochure for helping professionals - about problem gambling and the Law 186/2016 on Gambling.)Gambling treatment and therapy options for addicted gamblersFortunately, there are a number of treatment programs and therapies that can help people with gambling addiction. Here are some of the options available to find help with gambling addiction and gambling treatment.Helpline for gamblers and their loved ones: 777 477 877The helpline offers immediate, accessible and anonymous support to anyone seeking help or advice on problem gambling.Helpline specialists can offer useful information about gambling addiction, recommend specific steps to address the problem and refer callers to specialist therapeutic services and support groups in their local area.This service can be the first step towards recovery and provide further direction in the process of treating gambling addiction.Group chats for gamblersGroup chats offer an online support option for people addicted to gambling as well as their families and loved ones. In an anonymous online environment, you can communicate with therapists in real time.These anonymous chat platforms allow participants to share their experiences, successes and struggles without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. Group chats can be especially beneficial for those who feel isolated or for those seeking the first step toward recovery. Visit the group chats on the Recruit Course platform.Self-help groups for gambling addictsSelf-help groups for compulsive gamblers, such as Gamblers Anonymous, offer structured meetings for individuals struggling with gambling. These groups operate on the principle of mutual support and sharing of experiences. Participants learn from others how to manage their addiction while providing support to newcomers. This type of therapy emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, acceptance of responsibility and personal growth.Addiction clinicsAddiction clinics offer professional help and care to people with various forms of addiction, including gambling addiction. These services offer a comprehensive assessment of the problem, individual or group therapy, drug therapy and a long-term treatment plan.At an addiction clinic, addicted gamblers can access professional counselling, diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and other support services, and can begin outpatient gambling treatment.Assistance in community counselling centres and non-profit organisationsCitizen counselling centres and non-profit organisations offer a wide range of services for people with gambling addiction and their families. These services address prevention and treatment of gambling and may include legal counseling, financial planning, family therapy, and educational programs about gambling and addiction.The goal is to provide the support and resources needed to overcome addiction and restore functioning in personal and professional life. On the Responsible Gambling page, you will find a clear map of addiction services to help you find help near you.Individual psychotherapyIndividual psychotherapy allows you to work on your addiction in a private and supportive environment. A therapist can help identify triggers of addiction, develop strategies to manage cravings for gambling, and support the recovery process.The therapist can use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, to help the client manage triggers, change unhealthy behaviors, and build a more fulfilling life.Psychiatric hospitalsIf gambling addiction is associated with other psychological problems or if other forms of treatment are unsuccessful, residential treatment in a psychiatric hospital may be the best solution for some individuals.These institutions provide more intensive therapeutic care in a controlled environment where clients can fully focus on their recovery without outside distractions and completely remove themselves from the environment that supports gambling. Programmes usually include a combination of individual and group therapy, educational seminars and other supportive activities.It is important that those suffering from gambling addiction and their loved ones know that help is available and that the first step to recovery is to admit the problem and seek support.A summary of gambling treatment optionsHelpline for gamblers and their loved ones: 777 477 877Group chatsSelf-help group for compulsive gamblersAddiction Outpatient Clinics Assistance at civic counseling centers and other non-profit organizationsIndividual psychotherapyPsychiatric hospitalsIf you or a loved one is facing a gambling addiction, it is important to remember that help is available and recovery is possible. The first step is acknowledging the problem and being willing to seek help. Don't be afraid to reach out to a professional who can help you find the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation. Remember that you are not alone and that the first step to recovery is often the hardest, but also the most important.

Gambling addiction, often referred to as gambling, is a problem that not only affects the individual, but also significantly affects family relationships and dynamics.Gambling problems can lead to financial difficulties, loss of trust and emotional distance between family members. So how can families recognise the signs of addiction and help in the recovery process?Symptoms of gambling addiction in the family environmentGambling addiction can manifest itself through a number of warning signs. Secret or long hours spent gaming, lying about how much time or money was spent gaming, borrowing money for unclear purposes or, conversely, being unable to repay debts are common. Neglect of family responsibilities or interests and isolation from family and friends may be other symptoms.Impact on family relationships and dynamicsGambling can cause serious financial problems, leading to tensions and conflicts between partners or between parents and children. Emotional impact includes feelings of betrayal, loss of trust and a sense of abandonment by the addict. Family members may feel helpless, frustrated or overly responsible for dealing with the situation.The role of the family in the recovery processThe family plays a key role in the recovery process. Above all, it is important to maintain open communication and avoid blaming or shaming the addict. Family support, patience, and understanding can create a safe environment in which the addict can work toward recovery.Information and Education: Family members should learn as much as possible about gambling addiction to better understand what the addict is experiencing.Professional help: The family should support the addict in seeking professional help, whether it is therapy, counselling or participation in support groups.Setting boundaries: It is important to set clear boundaries to help protect the family's finances and health, but also to support the addict in their journey to recovery.Support for friends and loved onesIf you have a person in your family struggling with gambling addiction, it's important to take care of yourself as well. Seek support from family members, friends or professionals. Make sure your physical and emotional needs are also being met. Remind yourself that it is not your fault that your loved one has a gambling problem. Spend time on activities and interests that are fulfilling and bring relief from the stress of family problems. In response to stress, it may be tempting to seek escape or pleasure in the same problem behaviors as the affected person. Avoid arbitrary acting out and look for healthier ways to cope with stress and pressure.Remember that self-care is not selfishness, but a necessary part of being able to effectively support your loved one. Finding a balance between providing support and protecting your own mental health is important.

Addiction is a complex condition in which an individual feels an irresistible urge to repeat certain behaviours or consume certain substances, despite the negative effects on their health, social life or economic situation. Addiction is characterised by several key aspects, such as loss of control over consumption or behaviour, continuation of the behaviour despite harm, and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.What are the types of addiction?Addictions can be divided into two main categories: chemical and behavioural.Chemical addictions refer to substances that an individual consumes that cause physical and/or psychological dependence. Examples include:AlcoholTobaccoDrugs (e.g. heroin, cocaine, amphetamines)Prescription drugs (e.g. benzodiazepines, opioid analgesics)Behavioral addictions are associated with certain behaviors or activities that produce a sense of satisfaction or euphoria, leading to repeated behavior despite negative consequences. Common behavioural addictions includeGamblingWork (workaholism)ShoppingInternet or video gamesSex and relationshipsAddiction and mental healthAddiction and mental health are two areas that are very closely linked, on several levels. People suffering from mental disorders are often more likely to develop addictions, while those with addictions may have an increased risk of developing mental disorders. This relationship is complex and can be influenced by many factors, including genetic predispositions, the environment in which the individual grows up and personal experiences. Individuals suffering from mental disorders such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder may turn to alcohol, drugs or engage in addictive behaviours (e.g. gambling) as a way of alleviating their symptoms. However, this form leads to long-term negative consequences, including the development of addiction.On the other hand, addiction itself can trigger or exacerbate existing mental disorders. Chronic use of psychoactive substances can lead to changes in the brain that contribute to the development of mental illness. In addition, the lifestyle associated with addiction - including social isolation, financial problems and conflicts in personal relationships - can increase the risk of mental illness.So how do we recognise the signs of addiction in the early stages?Early recognition of addiction is important for starting treatment and increasing the chances of successful recovery. Early signs of addiction include:Increased tolerance to a substance or behaviorFeeling compulsive or strong cravings for a substance or activityAttempts to cut down or stop without successNeglect of interests, responsibilities and social activitiesUsing substances or repeating behaviors as a way to cope with stressful situationsExperiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stopIf you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone close to you, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. The sooner the addiction is identified and treated, the better the chances of a successful recovery.

Problem gambling can have a significant impact on an individual's life and the lives of those around them. Acknowledging the problem and seeking professional help is an important first step on your road to recovery.However, communicating this step to loved ones can be challenging, even though it is an important part of the treatment process. This article will give you tips on how to inform those around you of your decision and how to prepare for their reactions.First, start by preparing to communicate. It is important to prepare yourself before telling your loved ones about your decision to seek professional help. The following areas for reflection may help you to do this:Understanding the problem: Make sure you fully understand the nature of your gambling problem and the reasons why you have decided to seek help. You can refer to the previous article on When and why to seek professional help: Counselling for those facing gambling problemsWork with your emotions: be prepared for the fact that communicating your situation may trigger strong emotions in both you and those close to you. Work on your emotions and find ways to stay calm and focused.Goal setting: Write down a clear definition for yourself of what you expect from the message. This will allow you to maintain direction in the conversation and be constructive.The second stage is to prepare the content of the message. Again, we have some points to help you think about and prepare the content of the message.Openness and honesty: Be honest about your issue and how it affects you and those around you.Your choices for treatment: Explain why you have decided to seek professional help and what steps you plan to take.Express gratitude for any support your community can offer you. Expectations from loved ones: If you have specific wishes about how your loved ones can help you or how they should treat you, now is a good time to say so.Another important aspect is the timing of the communication. The timing of when you decide to inform your loved ones is crucial. Choose a time when you have enough time and privacy for an open and calm conversation. Avoid times when people are stressed or tired.Those around you may react to the message in different ways. Prepare for a range of reactions from support to misunderstanding. The important thing is to remain calm and patient. If you encounter negative reactions, try to explain the reasons for your decision and how helping them can benefit not only you but also your relationship with them.Communicating your decision to seek professional mental health help for your gambling problem is a courageous step. With preparation, honesty and patience, you can convey this important message to those around you and get the support you need on your road to recovery.

In this article, we delve into the world of mental health care professionals. Although these professions are sometimes mistakenly confused, each plays a unique and specific role. Get your favourite cup of tea or coffee ready and let's explore each profession and how they can help you together.First, we'll look at the education and training of these professionals, which influence the quality of service they provide.Psychologist A single-subject psychology graduate from a university, either in the faculty of philosophy or education, or from one of the private colleges. In practice, one encounters counselling and clinical psychologists. A clinical psychologist is a professional who has passed a certification examination and is authorized to provide psychological consultations covered by health insurance. You can make an appointment for a consultation with a clinical psychologist on the recommendation of your doctor, while you can find a counselling psychologist on your own. A list of clinical psychologists can be found on the Association of Clinical Psychologists website.Psychiatrist A physician specialised in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental and emotional disorders. He is the only mental health professional authorized to prescribe medication. A list of psychiatrists can be found on the websites.PsychotherapistHe is a graduate of a university and accredited psychotherapy training, which includes hundreds of hours of practice and theory. This professional can help people with personal, relationship or work problems. A psychotherapist may or may not also be a psychologist or psychiatrist; these professions are combinable.Coach Has undergone certified training in coaching and has practical experience. Coaching can be an effective tool for personal and professional development. How can they help me?Psychologists offer psychological counselling (i.e. they give their clients expert advice) and support in areas such as partner relationships, family, work, school, sport or personal development. In addition, the clinical psychologist carries out diagnosis of mental illnesses.Apsychiatrist specialises in the treatment of mental disorders, including schizophrenia, affective or neurotic disorders. He or she is the only professional who can prescribe medication and make decisions about hospitalization.Apsychotherapist is a professional who assists people in improving or maintaining their quality of life. He or she offers support in dealing with personal, partner, family or work challenges. Rather than directly advising clients on what steps to take, he or she guides them to clarify their thoughts and emotions and to understand the context and situations in which they find themselves. This enables clients to make decisions and take constructive steps towards a better life.The coach focuses on developing the client's potential and helping them to achieve their personal and professional goals. He or she does not focus on the past or deeper psychological conflicts and emotional issues, but rather directs the client's attention to the future and to achieving concrete results.I hope that by reading this article you have gained a better understanding of the various professions that are dedicated to mental health support and are familiar with the variety of professionals to whom you can turn when you need to. Remember, whether you are looking for support, therapy or a path to personal development, there is always a professional ready to lend a helping hand. Don't hesitate to seek qualified help and invest in your mental health and wellbeing - it's the best investment you can make for yourself and your loved ones.

You are facing a challenge that seems insurmountable. Gambling problems can lead to feelings of loneliness, despair and helplessness. Admitting that you need help is not easy. Many fear stigma or judgement from others. However, overcoming these fears and seeking professional help is a key step to recovery and restoring mental health and well-being. Here are some tips on how to find the courage to seek help if you are struggling with gambling problems.Acknowledge the problemThe first step to getting help is admitting that a problem exists. This can be difficult, but it is essential for the next steps. Recognize that gambling is a disease that requires treatment and is not a sign of personal weakness or moral failure.Educate yourself about available sources of helpThere are many organisations and services that offer support and treatment for people with gambling problems. Information about these resources is often available online. Seeking this help can be a step toward not feeling isolated with your problem. You can read about sources of help in our blog article When is it time for treatment.Overcoming prejudiceSociety carries different biases towards mental health and addiction. Being aware that these biases are based on ignorance and fear can help overcome hesitancy to seek help. Remember that your health and well-being are a priority.Talk to someone you trustChoosing someone you trust and talking openly about your struggles can be very freeing. This person can be a friend, family member, or even a colleague. Having support from someone who listens and understands you is a great support.Remind yourself of your reasonsThink about why you want to change your life and overcome your gambling addiction. Whether it's for your family, your job, your health or just for your own wellbeing, these reasons can give you the motivation to ask for help.Choose the right way to ask for helpSome people may be comfortable meeting in person, while others prefer the anonymity of telephone helplines or online forums. Choose the method that suits you best and where you feel most comfortable.Seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Overcoming gambling problems is a journey you don't have to take alone. There are many resources and people ready to help you. Remember that every step you take toward getting help is a step toward a better and healthier life.

Gambling, or gambling, can be a fun form of entertainment for some, but for others it can quickly become an uncontrollable addiction with serious consequences. If you feel that gambling is controlling your life more than you would like, it's time to consider seeking professional help. In this article, we'll look at when and why it's important to seek professional help, and what the signs are that gambling is no longer just an innocent pastime.Why seek professional help?Prevent the situation from getting worse: The sooner you seek help, the less damage gambling will cause in your life - whether financial, relational or medical.Understanding the problem: Professionals can help you understand the roots of your addiction and teach you how to address it effectively.Getting back in control: Professional help can provide you with tools and strategies to take back control of your life.Support and understanding: The journey out of gambling addiction can be a lonely one. Professionals and therapy groups provide not only professional help, but also understanding and support from those who have been through a similar situation.When to seek professional help?Here's a list of symptoms and reasons that should make you think about seeking professional help:Loss of control: If you feel like you can no longer control how often or how much money you spend on gambling.Debt and financial problems: If you are getting into debt or other financial problems because of gambling.Lying and hiding: If you lie to family or friends about how much time or money you spend gambling.Neglect: If you neglect work, school, family or personal interests because of gambling.Stress, anxiety and depression: If gambling causes or worsens your mental health problems.Loss of interest in former hobbies: If you no longer enjoy the things you used to love and gambling is the only thing that interests you.Continuing despite the negative consequences: If you continue gambling even though you are aware of its negative effects on your life.If you see yourself at any of these points, it is important to know that you are not alone and that help is available. In addition, you are more likely to succeed in your fight against gambling addiction with professional support.Don't be afraid to reach out to professionals such as psychologists who specialize in addiction, therapy groups, or organizations that provide help for people with gambling issues. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and the first step towards a better life.