How to Avoid Gambling Addiction: Preventative Steps to Take
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Aug 28, 2024
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04:42 p.m.
ET
The number of individuals who report struggling with gambling addiction has increased significantly since the legalization of sports betting and gambling in 2018. The National Council on Problem Gambling reported that almost 2.5 million Americans meet the criteria for severe gambling addiction, plus up to 6 million more with a mild to moderate addiction.
With the increase in accessibility, there is a greater need to have preventative measures available for those who feel they may be at risk for gambling addiction. While there is no definitive way to avoid a gambling addiction besides completely abstaining from gambling, there are techniques that can be implemented to help reduce the likelihood.
Ways to try to reduce chances of developing a gambling addiction
There are ways to help reduce the chance that someone will develop a gambling addiction, with recommendations even beginning at a young age. Many of these steps are an ongoing process and should be a continued part in trying to prevent gambling addiction.
Prevention
Parents and caregivers are the first line of defense when it comes to preventing a gambling addiction. Encouraging children to engage in positive activities such as sports and clubs can help reduce the desire for potentially harmful activities like betting and gambling. It is also important to explain the risks of gambling and how it can become addictive if not done responsibly.
Playing Responsibly
While many adults can gamble responsibly, having a plan for gambling can help potentially reduce the likelihood of it escalating into an addiction. Following some of the top Responsible Gaming tips can help keep gambling fun, healthy and sustainable.
Set a limit on the time spent gambling
Set a maximum amount of money you’re willing to risk or lose
Let someone know your plan beforehand to keep you accountable
Be knowledgeable about the games you plan to bet on
Don’t drink alcohol or use drugs while gambling
Take breaks between games
Gamble only when it feels fun and positive. Stop when it feels negative.
Being aware of the addictive nature of gambling and recognizing the signs of gambling addiction are helpful ways to ensure that gambling does not escalate from a fun activity to a problematic habit.
Are some people predisposed to developing a gambling disorder?
There are certain risk factors that may make someone more predisposed to developing a gambling disorder than others. According to Yale Medicine, men are more likely to develop a gambling addiction versus women. Age also plays a part, with 7% of youths up to college age meeting the criteria for gambling addiction while only 1% of older adults do.
While there is no direct genetic link to a gambling addiction, it has been found that those with a parent who had a gambling addiction are more likely to develop one as well. Those who have been diagnosed with certain mood disorders, ADHD or antisocial behavior are at a higher risk for a gambling disorder, as are those who abuse drugs and/or alcohol.
Treatment for gambling addiction
There are several treatment options for gambling addiction, including inpatient treatment, therapy and peer support groups. The level of care needed will depend on the individual's needs and severity of gambling addiction. Birches Health offers research-backed treatment for gambling addiction from the comfort of one's own home.
Birches provides teletherapy sessions with licensed professionals in a 100% confidential setting. The process begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation to develop a custom treatment plan and help support someone during their road to recovery and throughout aftercare.
Below are a few ways to get started with Birches:
Speak with a Clinician: Schedule an appointment with a licensed clinician.
Reach out to a Care Specialist: Get individual support through your recovery journey.
Refer a friend or family member: Let us help you with a loved one’s problem gambling.
Take a Free and Confidential Assessment: Evaluate your gambling to see if you may need help with gambling addiction.
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to speak with our Birches Health team today.
The rise of problem gambling in the United States: Trends & stats
Gambling addiction has been on the rise with individual states having more issues than others. Below is a snapshot of how gambling addiction has affected the United States in recent years.
Virginia: 973% increase in the number of helpline callers between 2019 and 2023
Florida: 138% increase in first 2 months of legal sports betting
Ohio: 227% increase from January 2022 to January 2023
Massachusetts: 121% increase from July 2022 to June 2023
Nevada: 2.7% of adults meet the criteria for gambling addiction, the highest in the United States
