Various surveys have determined that around two million people in the U.S. are addicted to gambling, and for as many as 20 million citizens the habit seriously interferes with work and social life. (Scientific American)
Like many of the behaviors and struggles we have discussed throughout our website, shopping and gambling, when enjoyed in moderation can be a pleasant activity. However, for some, it becomes a problematic behavior that interferes with healthy living.
Where is the threshold that is crossed from healthy and enjoyable shopping and/or gambling to unhealthy and problematic? Much of the indicators are similar to other disordered behavior.
Gambling Addiction is identified in the diagnostic manual that clinicians use (DSM-5), while Shopping Addiction is not. However, the presence (or lack of) in the manual does not change the fact that both behaviors are often symptomatic of underlying and unresolved trauma.
Problematic shopping and gambling are an escape – from something.
That something is triggered by pain.
Pain is caused by underlying shame.
Shame is created by trauma.
Shopping and gambling become the symptom. When clients attend our program and are able to heal from their pain, shame, and subsequent trauma, the symptomatic behaviors are reduced or eliminated.
Call us to learn more about how we can help with your shopping or gambling addiction.
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Call Today 1-877-866-8661“ Honestly the Bridge taught me something I already knew but had to remember. I am so damn special, valid, and important. Everyone in my life saw it, but me. The Bridge just showed me how to look in the mirror to see for myself. ”
- Jewel, Alumnus
