Childhood trauma often affects psychological health in adulthood. Sometimes, to escape the pain and stress, people may turn to behaviors like gambling. However, gambling does not solve the underlying problems and can lead to more psychological and financial issues in the long run. Therefore, choosing "healthy escape behaviors" is crucial. These are actions that temporarily relieve stress, anxiety, and trauma, and have long-term positive effects on the mind and body. Let's discuss this in more detail with concrete evidence.
Psychological Impact
Trauma experienced in childhood can lead to decreased self-worth and self-efficacy. These refer to feeling valuable and believing in one's ability to succeed. When these are lowered, it can result in being overwhelmed by negative emotions, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. These issues can further develop into behavioral addictions such as gambling addiction.
1. Emotional Abuse: If a child does not receive enough love and support from family or is severely criticized, they may lose confidence. This can lead to low self-esteem in adulthood, causing dependence on gambling.
2. Physical Abuse: Experiencing physical violence in childhood leads to severe stress. This stress can cause psychological issues like anxiety and depression, increasing the risk of gambling addiction.
3. Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse causes severe psychological damage, leading to addiction and self-destructive behaviors.
4. Neglect: Children who do not receive enough attention and care from parents may lack confidence and struggle with relationships, leading to risky behaviors in adulthood.
References
- Horak, N. S. (2018). Childhood trauma and gambling disorder: A complex association.
- Felsher, J. R., Derevensky, J. L., & Gupta, R. (2010). Young adults with gambling problems: The impact of childhood maltreatment. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 8(4), 545-556.
Causes of Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction refers to a state where one cannot stop gambling even if they want to. The reasons for this disease are varied, and childhood traumatic experiences are just one factor. Other factors also contribute to it.
1. Pursuit of Pleasure: Winning in gambling feels good, and the desire to repeatedly experience this feeling can make it hard to stop.
2. Environmental Influence: Easy access to gambling in the environment makes it easier to start and harder to quit.
3. Biological Factors: The human brain shows specific responses when feeling rewarded. If gambling strongly connects to this reward, it increases the likelihood of addiction.
4. Psychological Issues: People with mental health issues like depression or anxiety may turn to gambling to cope.
These factors vary from person to person, and the combination of multiple factors often leads to gambling addiction. In other words, gambling addiction usually results from a mix of various causes.
References
- Harris, A., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018). The impact of speed of play in gambling on psychological and behavioural factors: A critical review. Journal of Gambling Studies, 34(2), 393-412.
- Nower, L., & Blaszczynski, A. (2006). Impulsivity and pathological gambling: A descriptive model. International Gambling Studies, 6(1), 61-75.
Suggestions for Healthy Escape Behaviors
To escape the pain, it is recommended to adopt the following healthy escape behaviors.
1. Exercise: Reduces stress and improves overall health.
2. Meditation and Deep Breathing: Promotes mental peace and enhances concentration.
3. Hobbies and Creative Activities: Calms the mind through activities like drawing or playing instruments.
4. Interaction with Nature: Relaxes and heals through walks or hikes in nature.
5. Social Activities: Spending quality time with friends and family provides support and connection.
These activities biologically improve brain function and support mental health. For example, exercise and meditation balance brain neurochemicals, reducing stress. This improves emotional regulation and mitigates trauma effects.
Conclusion
Understanding trauma deeply and actively engaging in healthy escape behaviors can lead to self-healing and improved psychological health. We all need support to overcome challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
