How to Know If You Are You at Risk for Online Gambling Addiction

Gambling is very fun, exciting, and can be overly addictive.

There are millions of people each year that cannot resist the urge to gamble. And so, they battle with the consequences of online gambling and develop a gambling addiction.

Many are lured by the bright lights and promises.

But essentially and at its core, it is the diversion, the distraction, the ability to be able to pull you away from your problems. Gambling is very pleasurable and there are like-minded people around who enjoy the same things as you.

Casinos even take advantage of this to pull you in, even further, with free offers, drinks, rooms, and free entries into big-stakes games; simply winning a lot for noting. They still get a pay off because you will spend or lose more than you actually gain. There are many places in the world where you can go to gamble.

The most famous of them all being Las Vegas and Atlantic City in the United States of America. However, a contrast to this is the fact that online gambling is illegal in the USA.

But, online gambling in and of itself is a major cause in gambling addiction because you have access to do so whenever you wish. It is right there at home, you don’t need physical cash and there are thousands of websites from all over the world that are just there luring you in with freerolls and offers.

Reasons for Online Gambling Addiction

Please do note not all people who gamble are actually addicted. But even with their differences – age, race, sex, nationality, and culture; gambling addiction is experienced by a wide cross-section of people.

There is always a reason why people gamble.

It may vary greatly from financial problems, relationship issues, death, depression, and many other triggers. But they all are trying to escape from them; even temporarily. Some people become addicted when they have lost a lot of money and spend a great deal of time trying to get it back, and in the end, they keep on losing money hence the cycle continues.

But you should also note that gambling addiction often doesn’t only affect the individual, but also friends, family, co-workers, health, and many other things.

You are at risk of having a gambling addiction if you have certain traits or tendencies. If you are addicted to any other substance like drugs, alcohol, or even sex; you can become a gambling addict.

Ask Yourself These Questions

Do you have a history or genetic probability of anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and other psychological disorders?

Did you start online gambling at a young age? Are you male? More men become addicts than women. Also if you live close to or have consistent access to gambling locations or portals.

Or, maybe you have an idea that you are already struggling with a gambling problem, but you’re not ready to admit it. If you find yourself heading to the Uptown Pokies a few nights a week, or you constantly think about getting online and gambling, it could be another sign of a problem. Gambling addicts tend to think about how they can keep gambling, no matter what time of day it is. They also are often very good at ‘hiding’ their activities so others aren’t readily aware that they could be struggling. Does that sound like you?

All of these can lead to gambling addiction. If you suspect this, seek professional help.

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About the writer:
Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 30 books, for more than six years and enjoys volunteering as a Counselor. She is a freelance writer for online publications such as Revealing the Christian Life, Jamaica Rose, Entertainment Trail, My Trending Stories among others.

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