No one denies gambling can be really fun once in a while. It brings about that feeling of excitement that all of us crave just look at $1 deposit casino nz, it offers low deposits and loads of fun! Why wouldn't I feel excited? However, not everyone sees gambling as an occasional entertaining activity. Unfortunately, if practiced in an uncontrolled manner, gambling can have serious consequences on one's personal life.
There are a couple of stages of gambling addiction, one of them being called “problem gambling.” At this point, an individual may display only a few signs of gambling addiction that usually don't cause any concern. The National Council on Problem Gambling claims that such behavior can be seen in 4 to 6 million Americans.
Yet, if nothing is done to stop addiction at an early stage, it can grow into a serious problem known as pathological gambling. Around two million US citizens suffer from this problem defined as:
“increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, “chasing” losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.”
Although the most obvious sign that gambling has taken its toll on someone is a financial crisis, other problems like family issues and emotional breakdowns are also common. In the text below, you will find the most common signs of gambling addiction, as well as advice on how to help yourself and others.
1. You Feel the Constant Urge to Gamble
The first sign that you are about to step into a gambling abyss should be that voice in your head that doesn't stop talking about gambling. What was once a fun activity you enjoyed every now and then has become an obsession that won't leave you even for a moment, regardless of whether you're at work or spending quality time with family and friends.
Also, you might feel the urge to celebrate even the smallest successes by gambling; at that moment, your gambling addiction starts getting more serious.
2. You Gamble with Money You Can't Afford to Lose
Every recreational gambler knows that having a gambling budget and sticking to it is a must in order to stay safe and prevent addiction. If you have gone through your gambling budget and started using your savings to keep playing, pathological gambling might already be a problem.
It is crucial to stop this habit from developing as early as possible, as it can result in spending your children's college funds or even putting your family at risk in one way or another.
3. Gambling Always Comes First
Once you find yourself deep into the gambling problem, you will lose interest in everything else that mattered to you before. You will likely skip family gatherings and almost never see your friends. There's even a chance that you might start leaving early from work just to spin the reels a few times.
4. You Gamble More to Recover Your Losses
You will know that you are not a recreational player anymore when you start increasing your stakes, as small bets won't excite you anymore. However, with higher stakes, the losses will increase as well. After experiencing big losses, players with a gambling problem don't stop.
On the contrary, they start gambling more, hoping they will hit a jackpot and get back everything they've lost, which almost never happens. Instead, they sink deeper into the mud until they go bankrupt.
5. Finding Money for Gambling Creates More Trouble
When they run out of money for gambling, addicted players start borrowing from friends and family. Most often, it doesn't end there. In a lot of cases, gamblers start selling furniture or family jewelry or even steal money, which can result in arrest or legal charges.
Steps You Can Take to Quit Gambling
If you or people around you have noticed any of the signs mentioned in the text above, you should take the necessary steps to put a stop to potential pathological gambling.
Here's what you can do to get out of the vicious circle:
1. Acknowledge the Addiction
The first step in solving any problem is admitting that you have it. Once you come to terms with the fact that you are addicted to gambling, it will be easier to handle the issue.
2. Surround Yourself with People Who Love You
Support can be crucial when fighting addiction. It's always easier to stay strong and fight the disease if you know you can count on your family and friends. In case you have no one around to help you stay on the right track, organizations like Gamblers Anonymous can be a great alternative.
3. Stay Away from Gambling Venues
Whether you're a fan of land-based venues or you rather spend your money in online casinos, you must stop visiting any gambling-related establishments. Avoid even driving through the part of the city where the casinos are located and block online casino sites. If you don't think you are strong enough to do it by yourself, ask a family member or a friend to do it for you.
4. Find a Hobby
Breaking a bad habit is best achieved by replacing it with a new, good one. Think about the things that inspire you and spend time practicing them instead of gambling. It can be anything from painting or running to taking cooking classes, as long it keeps your mind occupied.
5. Consult an Expert
If you have tried everything but gambling addiction is still ruining your life, it is time to ask for professional help. There are people trained to help you deal with addiction and consulting them is the best and the fastest way to get back on track and start living a normal life again.
