Ratgeber Glücksspielsucht

About 1 to 2% of Germans are addicted to gambling. People who engage in gambling compulsively typically experience a range of psychological, social, and financial problems in their daily lives, which can cause significant distress. This guide is aimed at both those affected and their relatives and is intended to help better understand the condition of gambling addiction.

The guide first provides general information on the topic of gambling and gambling addiction, as well as the various forms of gambling and their addictive characteristics. The development and maintenance of gambling addiction are described using a three-phase model and explained through processes of classical and operant conditioning, tolerance development, and the phenomenon of addiction memory. Those affected and their relatives learn about available resources and support services. The focus areas of behavioral therapy treatment for gambling addiction are highlighted: addressing dysfunctional cognitions, relapse prevention, and money management. Through case studies and worksheets, it is illustrated how individuals can identify their dysfunctional cognitions related to gambling, develop personal risk situations and emergency strategies for relapse prevention, and gain an overview of their financial situation.