Responsible Gambling – How to Keep Your Gaming Habits under Control
In the age where casino games are so easily available via the world wide web, there are a handful of dice-roll lovers who are, unfortunately, struggling with gambling addiction. The ease at which casino services are obtainable has caused a somewhat uncontrollable spiral, affecting players’ quality of life.
This not only affects casual rollers. Even professional players can be affected by this. So, the problem itself cannot solely be attributed to a lack of willpower or poor self-control. In many cases, there are underlying issues or external factors that can manifest themselves in the form of a chronic gambling problem.
Perhaps, reading on, you will be able to further discover what gambling addiction is, its exhibitions in a person, and understand the extent to which this can lead to a loss in quality of life.
How Does Gambling Addiction Happen?
The obsession that some people have with betting does not usually come with a clear symptom or cause. Instead, it is a combination of different factors and straining elements that a person has in their life. This can cause them to see placing bets as a way out of strenuous relationships, decisions, and life turns, in general. Sooner or later, they become dependent on the habit, and it proceeds to be somewhat an unhealthy coping mechanism for most. Very rarely is a gambling addiction driven by the need to earn money, as most people would think.
Common Signs of Gambling Addiction
There are always a few telltale signs that a person is struggling to practice responsible wagering habits. In some cases, identifying them in a friend may also lead you to self-diagnose a gambling problem. Here are a few signs and indications that you or someone may have difficulty gambling responsibly.
Personal
- Using wagering as a means of escaping.
- Justifying every reason to gamble.
- Spending too much money on online casino sites or bookies.
- Utilizing emergency funds as a bankroll.
- Heavy borrowing to feed a gambling habit.
- Problems/ Arguments with family members over the topic of gambling.
- Frequenting casino areas and spending most days there.
- Being unable to gamble creates irritancy/anger.
Peers
- Refuses to stop placing bets, especially risky ones.
- Always talking about casinos and casino games – the latest games, big payouts, etc.
- Has known financial difficulty/unpaid commitments.
- Constantly asks for monetary favors/loans.
- Secretive about financial matters.
- Gradually avoids all social activities to gamble.
Why Choose to Gamble Responsibly?
Many may have the stand that if someone gambles, that’s their personal choice and problem to deal with. But there are more complex, underlying connections when someone decides to ignore methods of safe and responsible betting. Bad gaming practices can lead to fallouts between members of a family and even sever ties. In a lot of cases, however, the burden is monetary. Families can be torn apart due to mismanagement of budgets stemming from gambling habits. In worst-case scenarios, one can become a social recluse that relies solely on the high of being able to gamble. The ending of such isn’t usually pretty.
Steps to Alleviate Bad Gambling Habits
- Seek help from a professional counselor.
- Reconnect with family and friends.
- Set a strict budget and stick to it.
- Keep track of your sessions and spends.
- Fill in the gaps with alternative activities that keep you happy.
Stopping Gambling Addiction – Sought Professional Help
Sometimes, just doing the abovementioned steps may not be able to fully fish you out of your gaming predicament. Don’t beat yourself up for it. Believe it or not, it is a common infliction, and not many can power their way out of it alone. Instead, look to these organizations and professionals for help.
Gamblers Anonymous (http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/)
This is a support group for those struggling with gambling problems. The organization is known for its face-to-face support group meetings and have successfully helped people recover. They also have a full-time hotline for those who prefer to keep their identities and issues a secret.
Contact Details- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (626) 960-3500
Gam-Anon (https://www.gam-anon.org/)
This organization brings help to those who have been affected by the gambling habits of a loved one. Their comprehensive 12-step program aims to restore a healthy life balance, offer support, and recalibrate the emotional states of those who have been negatively impacted.
Contact Details- Email: (718) 352-1671
- Phone: [email protected]
GamCare (https://www.gamcare.org.uk/)
GamCare is one of the leading gambling support providers globally. They have multiple channels for people to speak up and be open about their gaming addictions. There are also forums and self-help guides in relation to responsible gaming.
Contact Details- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (020) 7801 7000