So, how do you know if you
or someone you know has a
gambling problem?
First of all it's important
to note that compulsive gambling
is a psychological condition
that makes people unable to
control their desire to gamble.
Many crave the feeling they
have when they gamble and
seek this experience on a
daily basis, no matter whether
they're on a winning or losing
streak. Compulsive gamblers
may start betting small amounts,
but sooner or later start
to wager higher bets in order
to get the same feelings of
excitement they had when they
first started playing. Compulsive
gamblers often feel agitated
and restless if they are unable
to gamble and can feel a strong
desire to gamble when other
aspects of their lives are
weighing them down. Compulsive
gamblers may also believe
that gambling is the only
way to pay off debts and keep
believing that it's only a
matter of time before they
hit the elusive jackpot. Some
compulsive gamblers may find
themselves lying to friends
and families and in some cases
stealing money or goods to
pay for their gambling habit.
Not all compulsive gamblers
will exhibit each of these
qualities, but if you recognise
just a few of these in yourself
or someone close to you then
it could be time to seek help.
Compulsive gambling is treatable
and there are a number of
wonderful organisations set
up to deal specifically with
this problem. Gamblers Anonymous
is probably the most well-known
and widespread and is based
on a 12-step program similar
to that of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Members meet on a regular
basis to share experiences
and listen to each others
stories and you will find
that there are literally hundreds
of Gamblers Anonymous groups
situated all over the world.
Go to the Gamblers Anonymous
website for more information
(www.gamblersanonymous.com)
or check your local newspaper.
Gam-Anon is another well-respected
self-help organization whose
motto is "serenity, courage,
wisdom. "Their website provides
a solid resource into the
issues surrounding compulsive
gambling and meetings are
held regularly. (www.gam-anon.org).
The National Council on Problem
Gambling is a government sponsored
organization with branches
across the USA. The website
also has a lot of information
which you may find useful.
(www.ncpgambling.org).
Other countries will also
have their own groups and
organizations which may be
publicly or privately run.
Again check your local newspaper
or phone book for more information.
Remember, compulsive gambling
is a mental health issue for
which there is help and support.
If you feel that gambling
is dominating your life in
a way that is harmful or unhealthy,
then perhaps its time to talk
to someone about it.
About the author:
Ryan is the editor of Fair
Online Gambling, an Online Gambling Guide.
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