Gambling can be a fun pastime when done in moderation, but it can also be dangerous if used as a way to avoid boredom or problem situations. Many call problem gambling a hidden addiction, because it rarely manifests in physical symptoms or outward signs. Nonetheless, there are many warning signs that you may be suffering from an addiction to gambling. These include the following:
Seek professional help. Professional therapists can help you understand your problem and develop strategies to overcome it. You can also use online resources such as BetterHelp, which matches you with therapists based on your answers to a brief quiz. BetterHelp is supported by reader donations. Although it is difficult to acknowledge your gambling problem, it is important to realize that you are not alone. If you’re worried about the consequences of your addiction, you shouldn’t feel alone. There are people who’ve overcome gambling addiction and you can too.
While gambling may create a sense of excitement and euphoria, it’s important to understand the risks involved and when to quit. It’s essential to know when to stop gambling and to keep a budget. Even the simplest games of chance can end in disaster. To prevent this from happening, you must recognize the dangers of gambling and develop a plan to handle the consequences. Gambling can become an addictive habit if you don’t have the right mindset.
The best way to stop gambling is to take a decision to quit. It can be difficult to resist the urge to gamble, but it can be done. The first step is to get rid of your credit cards. Give the credit card to a friend or family member and make automatic payments to the bank. You should also close any online betting accounts and keep only limited cash on your person. If you’re already addicted, you may want to consider a different form of gambling.
In addition to being addictive, gambling may also be harmful to your health. Recent research shows that 83% of people in Atlantic City died suddenly. The extent of gambling-related health risks remains unclear, but it’s important to know that such activities can be harmful to the health of cardiac patients. Gambling addiction can be a life-threatening condition, especially when the victim is elderly. There’s also a need for more research on the biological correlates of gambling, as well as the role of generalist physicians in treating such patients.
Fortunately, there are treatments for problem gambling. Treatment for gambling addiction can include medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. Some types of gambling are more harmful than others, and therapy can help you get control of your urges and manage your behavior. Luckily, these treatments are confidential and are available 24 hours a day. It’s also possible to consult a gambling counsellor. You can reach one of these experts for free. These counsellors are always available to help.