After the legalization of gambling, the number of problem gamblers has increased dramatically. If you’re a parent of young children who play games for fun, here are the symptoms and ways to combat gambling addiction. Gambling has many benefits, and it’s often a great way to relieve boredom or stress. But it can be dangerous, too. The following are some tips for parents to help their children learn the signs of gambling addiction and avoid losing control of their money.
Problem gamblers develop after legalization of gambling
The prevalence of problem gambling varies by country. Some estimates place its prevalence at 1 to 4% of the adult population. While 0.1 to 0.8% of people are pathological gamblers, many more suffer the consequences of gambling addiction. Lesieur, a professor at Harvard Medical School, describes pathological gambling as a “pathological condition” with specific criteria. A recent study found that 7.9 million adolescents were potentially pathological gamblers.
One of the challenges of legal gambling is the increase in problem gamblers. While a small percentage of gamblers will become problem gamblers, a mature gambling community will adapt to the increased exposure to limit the initial spike in problem gambling. The solution to this problem is to dedicate a portion of the revenue from gaming establishments to social services. However, problem gambling has a long way to go before it is addressed.
Signs of a gambling addiction
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may have a gambling addiction. Problem gambling begins as a simple activity that you enjoy occasionally, but eventually becomes a part of your life. You may find yourself ignoring other tasks or putting off meals so that you can gamble. It may even lead to depression or anxiety. You may even neglect taking your medications or avoiding social gatherings. The symptoms of problem gambling can be hard to spot, but if you suspect you may have an addiction, it is time to seek professional help.
You may notice that you are a problem gambler if you are constantly trying to increase your bets. Your bank account is draining and you are turning to other people for money. Moreover, you may notice that your gambling is taking over every aspect of your life, which includes your relationships, your job, and your finances. You may even feel depressed and suicidal thoughts. The signs of a gambling addiction are common among those with depression.
Ways to combat a gambling addiction
If you’re concerned about your gambling habits, it’s time to seek help. Often, a loved one can help, and professional therapy can refine skills you already possess. There are many resources available, including support groups. The Recovery Village is one such place. It offers treatment for gambling addiction, as well as substance use disorders, and aims to reduce the negative impacts of gambling. Listed below are some ways to combat a gambling addiction.
Identifying and avoiding triggers: Problem gamblers are more likely to lose control of their behavior during bad times, such as at a casino. While this may lead to a lapse, it does not mean a relapse is inevitable. Rather, it is a chance to learn what triggers the lapse. A lapse in control can teach the gambler what triggers their behaviors, what works and what doesn’t. They can then adjust their plan to better cope with situations that cause them to gamble.