Gambling is highly addictive, and the statistics are worrying. Research shows that gambling addiction is related to alcoholism, PTSD, mental illness, college wave, and criminal activity. Three to five gamblers out of a hundred are compulsive gamblers. Several factors cause gambling addiction and range from biological/psychological to socio-economic.
In the UK alone, the number of people dealing with problem gambling is over 500,000, considering research has put the number at over 400,000 in 2017. The number has been growing due to the impact of the recession. Also, betting platforms are accessible, especially online casinos, which are now offering live dealer games besides RNG-powered games.
Most gambling addicts play online, and one problem with this form of gambling is its accessibility. You can play anywhere, anytime - whether at school or work. The problem with online gambling is that you get hooked fast, and it's not easy to admit you are addicted. Besides, it's hard for friends and family to notice.
The effects of gambling addiction are mainly socio-economic and may, at times, escalate to psychological. When you're addicted to gambling, you tend to spend a lot on it, and you hardly notice. If you experience cash flow problems, chances are you are hooked. Gambling addiction also tends to strain relationships with friends, family, and even co-workers.
Once you find out you have a gambling problem, you must seek treatment. Depending on the extent of the addiction, you can talk to friends or relatives, and in extreme cases, you might need therapy. Several online and local organizations help those dealing with gambling addiction and recover from addiction.
There are also self-exclusion and self-limitation rules, although most betting agencies overlook them. With self-exclusion, you can opt out of single or multiple betting companies for a certain period. On the other hand, self-limitation allows you to cap your expenditure on single or multiple gambling sites as well. These can help you keep off-betting.
Anyone can be addicted to gambling, as the hope is always winning big money jackpots or recovering losses. The trend is now affecting adults as well as children. Parents need to be aware of what their children are up to. Keep credit cards safe and always track their expenditure.
For gambling addicts, it is not the end of the road. There are lots of success stories from people who overcame gambling addiction. The journey starts with you – accept you are addicted and be ready to get out of the muck. While it may be quite a challenge, it is the best route to follow.
