Signs Of Gambling Addiction

While indulging in gambling or betting once in a while is okay, though not morally correct, it is when a person start getting a high from it, just like from alcohol or drugs, that it becomes a problem. At this point of time, it starts interfering with the personal, psychological, physical, social or vocational areas of his life and turns into gambling addiction. The worst part of this addiction is that there are no obvious physical signs and symptoms to let the gambler, or his loved ones, be aware of the problem, till it attains massive proportions. Rather, you will have to learn to recognize subtle signs, in the person's behavior and activities, to identify the addiction. In order to help you out, we have listed the main signs of a gambling addiction, which should put you on red alert.

Symptoms Of Gambling Addiction

Personal

Becoming restless, irritable and angry when prevented from gambling
Alienation from friend, family members and even career
Constant fixation on gambling
Getting a high from gambling, just like drug abuse
Wagering increasingly larger amounts of money to get the high
Privacy in matters related to money and finances
Sudden wish to control household finances
Asking friends and family for money
Stress, anxiety and depression
Feelings of despair, dread and worthlessness
Alcohol or drug abuse
Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Stealing money in order to gamble

General

Overdue or unpaid bills
Unexplained loans or cash advances
Lack of money, despite static income and expenses
Unusual increase in credit card usage
Missing jewelry, cash, or valuables
Constantly declining savings
Missing bank or credit card statements
Calls or letters from bill collectors
Unexplained cash, especially when there are unpaid bills

How To Treat Gambling Addiction

Okay, now that you have figured the common, yet unnoticed signs of a gambling addiction, the most frequently asked question is how to go about treating it? In such a case, it is best to take the advice of a doctor or help your friend/family member with group sessions of psychotherapy. This will not only help the person grow closer to his family and friends once again, but will also help him/her in staying away from such a hazardous habit. A compulsive gambler will most likely need medical help and therapy.

If you think that your loved one is on this track and you don’t have the courage to ask whether he/she is addicted to gambling, then it is time you opened up and helped him/her. If the right help is not provided at the right time, it could lead to drastic consequences, complete detachment, physical and mental pain. Remember, a gambling addiction, is more like a ‘hidden illness’, leading to increased impulsiveness and severe psychological problems. The good news however, is that this illness can be treated and cured once and for all, if spotted early. So, go through these gambling addiction signs once again and help a friend or family member in need.

How to Cite

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Society'