Gaming Issues and Compulsive Play FAQ

Despite knowing the potential harm that gambling may do to their life, many with gambling problems nevertheless can’t seem to resist the temptation to bet.

Why Do People Get Compulsive Gambling?

A gambling addiction is more likely to develop in those who begin gambling at a young age or who have a history of problem gambling in their family, according to research. On the other hand, pinpointing a direct cause and effect is not easy. Anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race or ethnicity, may develop a gambling addiction. The fact that compulsive gambling often happens with other addictive diseases like substance abuse or alcoholism further adds to the complexity.

The formation of a gambling addiction is thought to be influenced by a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements, even while there may be a hereditary tendency towards impulsivity or addiction problems, according to genetic research. Because of the interconnected nature of these components, it is crucial to comprehend them all to treat gambling disorders successfully.

How Come Some People Just Can’t Stop Gambling?

Advertising for gambling is ever-present in our culture, from television and radio to newspapers and even during athletic events. Both online and in-person gaming establishments, including new no deposit casino, make it easier for people to gamble. People prone to developing gambling problems are put in a perilous position because of how easy it is to get their hands on these products.

If they go over their budget, obsessive gamblers who keep placing bets in the hopes of winning large might end up bankrupt. Some people may win large, which makes them want to gamble even more. Individuals have a sense of helplessness and entrapment inside this pattern of behavior.

Substance abuse is not the only possible cause of addiction, as is often believed. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that produces a natural “high,” and gambling causes the same kind of physiological changes in the brain as recreational drugs. Whether it’s drugs, alcohol, or gambling, this chemical response is what drives addiction and makes you want more of the high.

Problems with Gambling: Myth and Fact

Myth: To be a problem gambler, you must bet every day.

Fact: An individual with a gambling issue may or may not gamble regularly. If gambling leads to issues, then it is a problem.

Myth: For those who are financially stable, compulsive gambling does not pose much of a problem.

Fact: Many other issues may arise from compulsive gambling than money. Problems in relationships and with the law, unemployment, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are all possible outcomes of gambling addiction.

Myth: Problem gambling is only a sign of being impulsive, careless, or stupid.

Fact: Gambling issues may impact individuals from all walks of life and IQ levels. Problem gambling may emerge in anybody, including those who have a history of self-control and responsibility.

Myth: Some people believe that partners of problem gamblers encourage their loved ones to gamble as well.

Fact: Problem gamblers often attempt to justify their actions. If you want to escape accepting responsibility for your actions—including the steps to solve the problem—blaming other people is a good strategy.

Myth: You should assist a problem gambler in paying off their debt if they incur any.

Fact: It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that quick fixes are always the best option. But helping the gambler get out of debt can lead to further issues on the road if it encourages them to keep gambling.

When Will I Start to Feel the Addiction Signs?

Some people may have predispositions that make them more susceptible to the onset and progression of gambling addiction, which usually occurs over time. The degree to which an individual suffers from this impulse control issue differs from one individual to the next. Many people with gambling addictions need help from professionals to break their bad habits and start living a healthy lifestyle that encourages better decisions, even if they think they can do it on their own.

What Does It Mean to Have an Addiction to Gambling?

Gambling addiction, also called pathological gambling or gambling problem, is defined as compulsive and repeated gambling despite bad outcomes or attempts to cut down. A variety of symptoms may be experienced by those who are addicted to gambling, such as:

1. The individual may find themselves fixated on gambling and constantly planning their next session.
2. The individual may find that, as time goes on, they need to wager larger sums of money to have the same thrill or fulfillment from gambling.
3. The person may have tried to cut back or quit gambling but failed.
4. When attempting to cut down on gambling, a person may experience agitation, anger, or anxiety.
5. Gambling as a coping mechanism: To alleviate tension or unpleasant emotions, the individual may turn to gambling.
6. Pursuing losses: The individual can keep betting in the hopes of recouping their losses.
7. Disguising or downplaying one’s gambling habits: This individual may attempt to conceal or downplay their gambling habits from others.
8. Putting relationships, careers, and other vital parts of life at risk: The gambler could keep playing the odds even when it hurts their relationships, their career, and other parts of their lives.

While not all heavy gamblers suffer from an addiction, it is wise to see a doctor if these signs continue and start to negatively impact one’s life.

What Steps Can Be Taken To Assist?

Recommendations for those who are close to a problem gambler.

Do…

• When you and your partner are calm, discussing your spouse’s gambling and its effects will be easier.
• Find a way to help. Joining a self-help organization like Gam-Anon, which is specifically for families of problem gamblers, may put you in touch with others who understand what you’re going through.
• Your spouse should know that their gambling is hurting your family and that you want treatment.
• You should tell your kids if your spouse gambles.
• Assume responsibility for the household budget and keep a close eye on all bank and credit card accounts.
• Your loved one needs your support during gambling addiction treatment, which can be long and difficult.

Don’t…

• Get angry, start a tirade, or make empty threats or ultimatums that you can’t possibly fulfill.
• Put your partner’s excellent characteristics out of your mind.
• Do all you can to keep your partner out of family life and activities.
• You may think that helping your spouse overcome their gambling habit would be a breeze. Problems may persist even after they cut down on gaming.
• Help your partner pay off debt or excuse gambling.
• Try to hide or downplay your partner’s issue from yourself and anybody else you know.

Family members of problem gamblers may get help via Gam-Anon, while those with gambling problems can attend 12-step sessions hosted by Gamblers Anonymous.