Best Gambling Addiction Treatment Centers in Switzerland

Gambling Addiction Rehab typically lasts 14 days to 90 days. The length of rehab will depend on your treatment program and individual needs. Short-term rehab is typically 14 - 30 days. Long-term treatment can range from 60-day to 90-day programs or longer.

Research shows that 60-80% of individuals who complete Gambling Addiction Rehab remain addiction free.

Working with us gives you independent non-biased support and care - we attentively listen to your story. No need to contact all clinics yourself. Avoid sharing your information with multiple institutions and disclosure your details for marketing purposes.

Our medical concierge service will understand your situation and advise you with the best clinic match that fits your expectations, unique needs and budget. In general while choosing clinic you should keep in mind:

Level of Care: Assess whether you require medical detox, residential treatment, or outpatient support depending on your current condition and substance use history.

Location: Consider if receiving care near your home or relocating for treatment would provide the best environment for your recovery.

Cost: Depending on the level of comfort and privacy you expect we can advise on multiple options so that they fit your budget and expectations.

Program Duration: Select a treatment length that matches both the intensity of your condition and your personal recovery goals.

Treatment Focus: Make sure the facility’s areas of expertise, therapy styles, and patient population are a good fit for what you're seeking.

At any stage of the process we do not need to know your real name. All payments are transparent and direct to the clinic without hidden fees and markups: clinics often use separate payment entities, hiding transfers to rehabs in your bank statements.

Gambling disorder (gambling addiction) is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, maladaptive gambling behavior that causes you clinical stress. It causes major problems with your relationships, work or school, and/or finances.

Gambling refers to an activity in which a person risks something valuable to themselves to win something in return. There are many types of gambling, but common forms include betting in casinos or on sporting events. Not everyone who gambles develops gambling disorder.

Gambling disorder affects both adolescents and adults. Although gambling is illegal for individuals under 18 in the U.S., many adolescents engage in gambling activities, placing them at higher risk of developing an addiction later in life.

Estimates suggest gambling addiction affects approximately 2% to 4% of people in the U.S. However, these numbers may be underestimated as many individuals do not seek diagnosis or professional help.

A key indicator of gambling addiction is when gambling negatively impacts critical areas of life, such as relationships, employment, and financial stability. Specific signs include:

• Frequent preoccupation with gambling.
• Increasing the amount gambled to achieve the same excitement (tolerance).
• Multiple unsuccessful attempts to stop or reduce gambling.
• Feelings of restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down gambling (withdrawal).
• Using gambling as an escape from stress or negative feelings.
• Gambling to recover past losses (“chasing losses”).
• Concealing gambling behaviors from loved ones.
• Relying on others financially due to gambling losses.
• Continuing gambling despite clear negative consequences.

The causes of gambling disorder are multifaceted, involving factors such as:

• Brain chemistry alterations.
• Genetic predisposition.
• Personality traits and coexisting mental health issues.

Brain chemistry Gambling activates the brain’s reward system, releasing high levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. Over time, these surges disrupt normal brain function, driving individuals toward unhealthy gambling behaviors and diminishing the appeal of healthier activities.

Genetics Studies suggest gambling disorder has a genetic component, often running in families. Research on identical twins indicates genetics may play a larger role than environmental factors.

Personality traits and coexisting mental health conditions Individuals with gambling disorder frequently display extreme traits, such as impulsivity, sensation-seeking, compulsivity, difficulty with decision-making, and mood instability. They may also have coexisting mental health conditions, including:

• Substance use disorders, particularly alcohol.
• Impulse control issues.
• Mood disorders like depression.
• Anxiety disorders.
• Personality disorders.

These conditions may either precede or develop alongside gambling disorder.

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed discussion of gambling patterns and behaviors, often including input from family or close friends. Mental health professionals use DSM-5 criteria, which require at least four symptoms within the past year for a gambling disorder diagnosis.

Currently, no FDA-approved medications specifically treat gambling disorder. Treatment primarily involves psychotherapy, which focuses on recognizing and modifying unhealthy behaviors and thought patterns. Therapy can assist in:

• Controlling gambling urges.
• Managing stress effectively.
• Developing alternative recreational activities.
• Improving financial management.
• Rebuilding damaged relationships.
• Sustaining long-term recovery.
• Addressing coexisting mental health issues.

Therapeutic methods include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns associated with gambling.
• Motivational Interviewing: Encourages self-reflection on gambling behaviors and motivates behavior change.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: Examines underlying psychological factors contributing to gambling behaviors.
• Group Therapy: Provides shared support and motivation from peers facing similar challenges.
• Family Therapy: Educates family members about gambling disorder and fosters a supportive home environment.

Treatment effectiveness varies individually; patience and persistence are essential in finding the right therapeutic approach.

To reduce gambling disorder risk:

• Limit or avoid gambling activities altogether, especially if it begins to dominate your life.
• Understand your family history regarding addiction to assess personal risk.
• Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as exercising, meditation, or seeking professional mental health support.

The prognosis depends on severity, treatment engagement, and the presence of other mental health conditions. Less than 10% of individuals with gambling disorder seek professional treatment, though therapeutic support greatly improves management outcomes.

People with gambling disorder have an increased risk of suicide. Research indicates high rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts among those seeking help. If you experience suicidal thoughts, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline immediately for support.

Supporting a loved one involves:

• Promptly addressing your concerns and encouraging professional help.
• Demonstrating empathy and providing emotional support.
• Maintaining patience, as overcoming gambling addiction is a gradual process.
• Taking care of your own mental health and seeking support when necessary.

Experiencing gambling issues can evoke feelings of shame or denial, leading individuals to attempt self-resolution. It is important to acknowledge these struggles openly and seek professional guidance promptly. SwissMedExpert professionals are available to support and guide you toward recovery, emphasizing that early intervention significantly enhances treatment outcomes.