It is said that gambling is a family disease. One person may be addicted but the whole family suffers.Gambling addiction appears in several forms, some are more subtle than others.Before we get into all that, let's define gambling.
Gambling is defined as any wagering event for which there is a short time interval between placing the bet, playing the game, and learning the outcome.
It is the betting or staking of something of value, with the consciousness of risk and hope of gain, on the outcome of a game, a contest, or an uncertain event whose result may be determined by chance or accident or have an unexpected result by reason of the bettor���s miscalculation.
Gambling becomes an addiction or disorder when an individual has an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling.
Such individuals will keep gambling even when they are met with difficult mental, social and financial consequences.
The majority of individuals do not consider gambling to be a problem because it is seen as a quick way to get money.
As a result, the number of gamblers continues to rise year after year.
There are numerous signs and symptoms that can indicate that a person has a gambling addiction.
1. Attempts to control, limit, or stop gambling have failed.
2. Attempting to recoup more funds by gambling more
3. Putting crucial connections, a job, school, or professional possibilities in jeopardy of losing them due to gambling
4. Asking others to help you financially because you gambled away money
5. Feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression because you gambled
6. Lying to friends and family to hide the extent of your gambling
7. Resorting to theft or fraud to get gambling money
8. Borrowing money to fund gambling
9. Resorting to the sale of properties to fund gambling
The problem with gambling addiction is that some addicts are unaware of their condition.
Gamblers frequently believe that they can stop gambling whenever they choose, yet they soon find themselves gambling again.
It is not necessary for people who have a gambling addiction to bet regularly.
However, once they begin gambling, they may find it difficult to stop.
If you fear you have a gambling addiction, ask yourself these questions.
Do you bet more than you can afford to lose?
Have you tried to win back money you have lost to gambling?
Have you ever borrowed money or sold anything to gamble?
Have you failed several times to quit gambling?
Has your gambling caused any financial problems for you or your household?
Has your gambling caused you any health problems, including depression, anxiety or stress?
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then you have a gambling addiction.
Having a gambling addiction comes with a series of negative repercussions and can have a significant influence on one���s physical, emotional and financial well-being.
"A gambler is nothing but a man who makes his living out of false hope."
-William Bolitho
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
