Gambling as a form of entertainment can be both fun and exciting, but when it comes to the point where it interferes with your daily activities, health and relationship with the people around you, then it has become problematic.
Gambling addiction is an impulse-control disorder where you are aware of the consequences of your actions yet has little or no control over the urge to gamble. The need to gamble outweighs the risk, resulting to more frequent gambling involving more and more money.
This pathological urge to continuously play games of chance knowing full well the consequences that come with that behavior is an indication of a gambling problem. In the year 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included gambling addiction in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).
If you want to learn about problem gambling, continue to read this. We will list some signs to reveal an underlying pathological behavior. If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing this, it is highly recommended to seek help immediately.
- Random Gambling
These are gamblers who punts randomly. They bet on anything that captures their attention instead of staking only on things they understand or are actually interested in. A responsible gambler is selective with their gambling. If they are a sports fan, then they would only bet for the sports they follow, be it football, basketball, and others.
- Impulsive gambling
This is the urge to spend more money than intended and risking money on games of chance just to feel the thrill it brings.
- Spending Money Intended for Other Purposes
A player ends up spending money that was budgeted for other purposes. Regardless of the form of entertainment in question, one must be aware of the funds spent. There should be a budget set and it should be strictly adhered to.
- Borrowing Money to Continue Playing
When a gambler gambles his money away, he will look for other sources to borrow money from instead of quitting play altogether. This can put a strain to relationship with friends or family members. Even worse, a player will seek out bank loans to get cash.
- Feelings of Restlessness When Unable to Gamble
A person addicted to gambling will spend their waking hours dedicated to playing. This may include socially inappropriate times such as skipping work to gamble or skipping meals and proper sleep just to play. If unable to gamble, he becomes restless and irritable.
- Lying
To hide the extent of his gambling habits and expenses, a gambler would lie to the people around him. A gambler knows his behavior is wrong and shameful and yet cannot seem to stop playing.
- Chasing losses
Casual gamblers usually know the amount they’re willing to lose. But those with compulsive gambling problem are compelled to make up for their losses, a pattern that becomes destructive over time.
Online casinos usually have dedicated platforms to help players keep their gambling habits in check. Make sure to check out the responsible gaming page to help detect potential problems in the early stage. It is best to get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to keep it from getting worse.