Play Responsibly
Gambling is fun, but for some, it can get out of hand. Gambling is meant to be entertaining, like movies or video games. However, for some, it may develop into a serious addiction. I think it is important people play responsibly. It’s easy to get caught up in all the flashy lights and sounds of the slot machines. It can get even crazier when you actually start to win money.
The real question is: ‘When does casual gambling become problem gambling?’ Gambling becomes a problem when gambling for fun changes to compulsive gambling. You might think you don’t have a problem and that it doesn’t happen to you. Well, let me tell you, it can happen to everybody.
Signs of Addiction
Like every addiction, gambling also has some visible signs. Some people are better at concealing them. I’ll give you some of the ‘symptoms’ that may appear when you have a gambling problem.
‘Gambling Symptoms’
- Spending more money than you can afford
- Borrowing money to cover losses
- Gambling out of necessity instead for fun
- Excessive gambling
- Lying to conceal your gambling problem
- Chasing losses
- Gambling to forget about your problems
If you can recognize yourself in one or more of these symptoms, there is a chance you’ve developed a habit.
Causes of Compulsive Gambling
Gambling is just like any other addiction. For some people, gambling is a way to get away from your problems. Just spin some wheels in an online casino can make you forget all about your cheating ex. In some cases, gambling is the cause of another problem. Some examples are:
- Genetically inherited
- Depression
- Boredom
- Anxiety
- Personality disorders
In my personal experience, there are two different types of addictive gamblers. Those who go constantly and those who binge. The ones that binge won’t play in (online) casinos every day, but when they do, they tend to make up for their lost time and spend hours and hours in a casino. At this point, they don’t really play responsibly anymore.
Help organizations
Luckily having a gambling problem is not the end of the world. Nowadays it is considered a real problem and addiction. Admitting having a problem is the first step. Let me give you some websites that can help you tackle this problem.
http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/
I genuinely care about the mental health of my fellow online gamblers. Admitting that you might have a problem is a huge step but a truly important one to take. Don’t hesitate to contact a relief organization. You’re not the only one out there and help is always within reach.
Take care!
Sincerely,
