How to Identify and Combat an Addiction to Gambling

Online gambling provides a fun experience for millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, for a small percentage of people, online gambling is much more than a form of entertainment. Some people are unable to control their impulses to gamble. As a result, they can strain or ruin relationships, lose their job and put themselves in deep debt.

Whether youre afraid that a loved one is suffering from this type of affliction or youre concerned that you may have your own problem with gambling, this post will cover the signs of this very serious problem, as well as provide actionable advice for dealing with it:

How to Spot the Signs of Gambling Addiction

Many people assume that only people who gamble on a daily basis can be addicted to this activity. The truth is that just with drugs, food or alcohol, many gambling addicts simply go on binges. Even if its not done on a daily basis, the difference between recreational and addictive gambling is someone with a problem may gamble even when they dont really have the money to do so. Theyre also likely to hide what theyre doing from their loved ones, and may feel extremely depressed as soon as they stop gambling for the day.

If youre concerned about your own gambling behavior, other signs of there being a problem include gambling because you feel you absolutely need to have a rush, experiencing feelings of isolation when youre not gambling or having convinced yourself that you just need one hot streak to solve all your financial problems.

How to Deal with Gambling Addiction

A common misconception about gambling and other forms of addiction is people simply need to work on their self-control or willpower. The reality of the situation is when someone has an addiction, they are powerless to fight it. Regardless of what they try to do, if theyre simply attempting to deal with this problem on their own, theyre going to end up sliding into an even deeper hole. Because gambling addiction isnt just a habit that can be kicked, the first step for anyone suffering from it is to seek professional support.

Due to the increased prevalence of this problem, there are trained professionals around the world who have the experience and knowledge necessary to help start the recovery process. If youre seeking help for your own problem, you shouldnt feel ashamed about talking to a professional. However, since embarrassment and denial are both common feelings that accompany this disorder, if youre trying to get a loved one the help they need, an intervention thats guided by a professional may be necessary.

Professional treatment for gambling addiction involves two key components. The first is cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps individuals to identify their why theyre compelled to gamble and taking steps to correct it. Group support is the other essential component. Going to meetings and having people who are willing to provide support at any time plays a huge role in the ongoing treatment process.

If you or someone you love is struggling with gambling addiction, its important to know that there are proven options for fighting back against this disease.

I have been in the industry for 15+ years, read more of my work at OnlineGaming4u [http://www.onlinegaming4u.co.uk/] or connect with me personally on Google+.

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