Online Gambling Addiction

From LoveToKnow Online

While online gambling can be a fun and profitable diversion, it can also lead to an online gambling addiction. There are many different definitions for problem gambling, including 'pathological gambling,' and 'compulsive gambling.' For some people, there is a stigma attached to problem gambling, but recognizing it as an emotional problem is the first step towards overcoming that stigma. Problem gambling is no different than any other type of emotional problem in that it's not advisable to simply ignore the issue and hope it will go away.

Misconceptions About Problem Gambling

Some mistakenly believe that an online gambling addiction is merely a question of being irresponsible, weak, or immature. This simply isn't the case. Problem gambling is classified by mental health professionals as an emotional problem, and should be viewed no differently than depression, anxiety or other treatable emotional issues. Another misconception about problem gambling is that the mere availability of gaming houses or websites creates a problem. Closer examination of both the nature of problem gambling and the "availability is the problem" idea shows serious flaws in the logic of this belief. Gambling addiction is caused by a lack of control. That lack of control must be addressed regardless of the availability of legal gambling. It's an emotional issue unrelated to the mere existence of casinos, dice, playing cards or internet websites.

Does Someone You Know Have An Online Gambling Addiction?

There are many recognizable symptoms of problem gambling that may concern you. Some of these symptoms may not seem related to gambling in the beginning, but if the problem escalates you will begin to see links between these symptoms and a possible online gambling addiction. Some of these include excessive borrowing, bills going unpaid, secretive behavior, and sometimes even stealing or selling off valued personal belongings to support a gambling addiction. Again, some of these symptoms may seem unrelated in the beginning, and it's best not to jump to conclusions about any one of these happening as an isolated incident in the more "minor" categories. A one-time sale of a personal belonging or a lottery ticket turning up in the wash isn't neccesarily cause for alarm. In concert with other behavior--including a defenisveness about gambling or family problems arising because of excess time or money spent gambling-- there may be reason to seek professional advice.

Do You Have A Gambling Problem?

There are serious questions you should ask yourself if you think you may have a gambling problem. Do you feel remorse after gambling? Do you try to win money to pay your debts? Do you lose sleep over gambling? If the answers to these questions are "yes" you should seek professional help to determine what you should do about a possible gambling addiction. The Problem Gambling Helpline Network offers a toll-free number to help: 800.522.4700. If you think you have a problem, don't delay, seeking help is the best thing you can do.


 


Comments

I'm sorry to hear about your problem, Donato, but it's good that you're seeking help. As mentioned in the article, the Problem Gambling Helpline Network's toll-free number is available 24 hours a day and promises confidentiality - 800.522.4700. Gamblers Anonymous is another option for combating your addiction. The site offers a directory of local meetings where you can get involved in a 12-step program. If you have a trusted counselor or clergy member, he or she may also be able to help you start the conversation about your problem. Hope this helps you get started on the road to recovery!

-- Contributed by: Lorie

I have a gambling addiction, please help me.

-- Contributed by: Donato

You raise a good point, Audri. Unfortunately, the ads on this site can't be turned off for a single article. Because they pick up on words and phrases in the text, it's impossible to control whether they choose to highlight "gambling sites" or "fighting gambling addiction."

-- Contributed by: Lorie Witkop
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