Problem Gambling Explained

Usually, problematic or impulsive gambling affects the players’ finances. However, in addition to money problems, uncontrolled visits to casino sites have other negative consequences, including deterioration in family relationships, job loss and debts.

Many gamblers who have never been able to stop and ask for help find themselves alone because of their gambling addiction. Its frequent consequences are psychological disorders. Players suffer from frequent emotional ups and downs, experience anxiety and are constantly stressed and depressed.

As well, problem gambling can cause a deterioration in the player’s relationship with others. They lose loved ones, family, friends and jobs. In the most severe cases, players are willing to commit crimes to get more money to play.

If a person focuses exclusively on casino games, this indicates their unwillingness to participate in public life, to work on their relationships. This leads to their isolation. As a result, problem punters cannot admit they have problems and seek help.

In this section, we have shared important information about problem gambling and some important links. You can also take a test to see if you have problems with casino games.

What Is Problem Gambling?

This term describes player behaviour as having negative or even destructive consequences for their lives or the lives of those around them. The player constantly feels the desire to win back, spends all their free time on gambling and has problems with psychological and physical health.

Usually, these punters either do not acknowledge the problem or cannot seek help. Problem gambling is also often considered an addiction, which resembles other types of addiction and is treated in the same way.

Why Do Gambling Problems Occur?

Usually, players with addiction or its symptoms tend to develop such a problem. However, research shows that a range of factors such as genetics, environment, and psychological factors may influence a person.

When gambling, people experience a sense of risk and, in the case of victory, a sense of euphoria. This feeling helps them cope with other problems and negative emotions. Players who cannot control themselves have a desire to repeat this feeling.

How Do I Know If I Have a Gambling Addiction?

If you are not sure you are following the principles of responsible gambling and if your hobby is becoming an addiction, answer some questions and evaluate the role gambling plays in your life.

You can take a test, which will help you understand how gambling affects your life and whether you have an addiction.

Why Is It Hard for Me to Stop Playing at the Casino?

Many mistakenly think that problem gamblers simply do not have the willpower to get rid of their addiction. However, it is very difficult for such people to stop playing. First, many find it hard to admit that they have problems, even to themselves. It is often difficult for gamblers to control the time and money spent on gambling. Therefore, it is important that such a player gets support from others. After talking with someone close to you or with a specialist, you will understand how to proceed.

What Are the Negative Consequences of Problem Gambling?

In most cases, this leads to financial problems, job loss, debt, loss of loved ones and self-isolation. The player is also experiencing deterioration in physical and mental health. There are problems with sleep, appetite, anxiety and nervous breakdowns. Even though every gambler has a unique situation, the signs, effects, and treatments are basically the same.

Can I Be Harmed If Someone Close to Me Is Addicted?

Research shows that for every problem gambler, about seven people also feel the negative impact on themselves. The behaviour of an addicted person can have financial, social, and physical consequences for their environment, loved ones, and relatives.

Gambling addiction is a challenge not only for the player but also for their families. Often family members feel hopeless, stressed, panicky, and even angry when trying to help. Apart from this, they also face:

How Can I Know If My Loved One Has a Problem?

If you notice that someone close to you has a problem with gambling and their usual hobby turns into an addiction, learn more about how to help and act in such a situation. If you feel you cannot cope on your own, seek help from specialists.

Where to Get Help

The desire and willingness to ask for help is the key to success in getting rid of gambling addiction. Given the popularity of this type of leisure activity, there is a growing need for organizations that educate gamers about the importance of responsible gambling and help overcome challenges. Today, gamblers have access to a variety of ways to get help, namely:

Call the Support Hotline

In Canada, as in other countries, there is a support hotline for gambling addicts. Here you can get expert advice while remaining anonymous.

Live Chat

Many organizations offer consultation via online chat, where you can communicate with specialists speaking in English and French. You do not have to give your name here either.

Anonymous Groups

By googling, you can find many groups for problem gamblers and people who have suffered from someone else’s gambling addiction. Usually, at these meetings, your mentor is a person who has managed to overcome the addiction.

Thematic Forums

You can also find answers to all your questions or learn about successful experiences controlling time and money spent in a casino on gambling addiction forums.