A trip to the casino or online, is supposed to be a fun, enjoyable experience. For many the sights, sounds and overall atmosphere affords them a unique opportunity to just get a way from it all. For others, wagering on sports, blackjack or roulette is an action that latches on and becomes difficult to differentiate recreation from obsession. It’s not uncommon for gambling addiction to spiral out of control before the player knows he or she has a problem. This page is here to educate you on the types of gambling addictions, symptoms to look out for and how best to treat those you believe may have a problem.
What is Gambling Addiction?
In short, gambling addiction is an uncontrollable urge to continue wagering on various casino games or events no matter how much it hurts oneself or impacts those around them. This could lead to loss of emotional support from loved ones, depleted financial health and, depending how long the addiction lasts, negatively effect ones mental and physical health.
There are three primary types of gambling addiction.
Binge
Much like those who experience bouts of binge eating or drinking (alcohol), binge gambling is when somebody gambles a lot of money over a short period of time. Binge gamblers may appear to have their addiction under control at certain times, but the urge to bet overtakes their good judgement over a small window of time and they make excessive wagers which sometimes pays off and sometimes doesn’t.
Problem
Problem gambling is a more continual form of addiction where the person doesn’t tend to take time off. Problem gamblers can be unaware of their addiction, and hurt those around them or they could be aware of their addiction, but be unable to control it, put their health at risk and alienate their loved ones. Addiction in any form always leads to harm.
Compulsive
Compulsive gambling, also known as gambling disorder, as an uncontrollable urge to bet no matter the financial, emotional, mental and physical toll it takes on oneself or family. Compulsive gamblers often have a tough time admitting they have a problem, which places the burden on those close to him or her to diagnose, call attention to and intervene, which can lead to uncomfortable discussions.
It is always recommended to seek help when you or a family members suffers from any form of gambling addiction whether it’s online gambling or in a physical casino, poker room or sportsbook.