When Gambling Becomes a Problem
Sometimes people gamble for different reasons. Others gamble primarily because they need time to relax while enjoying and winning. Others see gambling as the easy way out of financial instability. The problem happens when a person gets addicted to lottery, slot machines, poker and other gambling stuff. When it becomes addictive and destructive for the player, then gambling becomes a big problem.
How do you know when gambling is already problematic? When do you draw the line between healthy gambling and addictive gambling? How will you diagnose yourself or your friends? What are the guidelines?
First let us define problem gambling. It is when people have uncontrollable urges to gamble even though it entails negative effects on the person’s financial capacity, relationships or daily living. It is also problem gambling when you want to continue playing even though you are haunted by your conscience and all the while you feel guilty while playing.
Here are some questions you could ask yourself to assess whether you are already into problem gambling. First ask yourself whether you are a compulsive gambler. Do you gamble until you do not have a penny left? In case you lost a lot of times already do you continue gambling to get back what you formerly lost? Did your gambling habit made you lie to friends and family? Was there ever a time that you borrowed money just to support your gambling urges? Were there times when you had to skip work, school or other obligations just to gamble? Is gambling a way to celebrate happy occasions or to forget your problems? Does gambling have effects, especially negative effects for your daily life and relationships? If you answered yes to at least one of the questions stated above, then you have a problem.
Remember that anyone can become a problem gambler. Gambling addiction is considered an emotional problem. Studies also show that slot machines which are located in bars and restaurants are the most addictive gambling type.
If you are into problem gambling already, there are ways to get yourself back on track. There are group therapies, individual therapies, and psychiatric medication which can help you. Group therapies offer advices and guidance to gambling addicts. It is handled by professional counselors who guide the addicts all throughout recovery. Same is true with individual therapies. Psychiatric medications are usually made of antidepressants. You must see a professional psychiatrist to be able to help you with this.
April 20, 2009