While gambling is an entertaining and pleasurable pastime, it can quickly become an addiction. This condition is often referred to as hidden gambling because there are no obvious signs or physical symptoms. Gambling is a highly addictive activity that affects the physical, psychological, social, and professional lives of those who are addicted. Although it may initially appear harmless, gambling addiction can have serious consequences. Listed below are some signs and symptoms of gambling addiction. These include the following:
Instinctiveness to gamble. While most of us are likely to indulge in a gambling binge at some point in our lives, we should be aware that our urges to gamble can negatively affect other aspects of our lives. Hence, gambling addiction must be treated to reduce the harmful consequences and regain control of one’s life. Cognitive behavioural therapy is one treatment option for this condition, and aims to change the way we think about gambling and reduce the urge to bet.
Family support. Problem gamblers may benefit from family therapy, marriage counseling, and career counseling to help them overcome the emotional and financial issues that lead to compulsive gambling. Having supportive friends and family members can encourage a problem gambler to seek help him stop gambling. Family and friends should take any conversations about suicide seriously. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the gambling addict to decide if he or she wants to seek help or continue gambling.
The first step is to stop the urge to gamble. First, make a decision. If it becomes an obsession, the desire to gamble will grow stronger until you stop it. Next, take steps to ensure that you have enough money. If you have a credit card, make sure to get one that is not tied to gambling. Consider having someone else handle your finances or set up automatic payments with your bank. Also, only keep a small amount of cash on you and don’t use the Internet for gambling.
Gambling can lead to a variety of health risks. According to a review by the Chief Medical Examiner, 83% of the deaths that occurred in Atlantic City were due to cardiac arrest. This indicates that gambling activities can pose a significant health risk, especially for elderly cardiac patients. However, the extent of the health risks from gambling is still unknown. Although gambling activities may not lead to sudden death, the use of automated external defibrillators has been shown to increase survival rates after cardiac arrest.
In addition to these health risks, gambling can lead to financial problems. People who cannot control their impulses to gamble may have a gambling disorder. Gambling counselling can help those who are suffering from this issue. Counselling is confidential, free, and available 24 hours a day. This option is also available to those who need support to overcome their addiction to gambling. It may be the best option for you if you are concerned about your finances and want to improve your lifestyle.