Addicted to Blackjack? Help for Casino Gambling Addiction
Published:
Nov 27, 2024
,
02:28 p.m.
ET
Blackjack is a casino card game sometimes referred to as "21." That's because the goal of the game is for players to try to get as close to 21 without going over. It's easy for most people to learn how to play Blackjack, which is part of its appeal.
Blackjack is popular with casinos around the world. It's been reported that 30 million people play this game per year. While Blackjack is a stimulating and entertaining game, it can also be addicting. Playing casino games like Blackjack can lead to a gambling addiction.
Can you get addicted to playing Blackjack?
Yes, you can get addicted to playing Blackjack. Gambling in general can be addicting for some individuals. Casino games stimulate the brain's reward system, which encourages compulsive behavior.
Gambling addiction is similar to how drugs and alcohol influence the brain. The individual gets excited at the opportunity of winning. This leads them to increase their bets and gamble for large payouts. Unfortunately, Blackjack can be unpredictable, which makes it appealing.
Signs of Problem Gambling and Blackjack addiction
Compulsive gambling is a serious problem that can ruin an individual's life. While treating this behavioral disorder is complicated, many individuals have gotten help with professional treatment.
If you or someone you know struggles with problem gambling or Blackjack addiction, you should be aware of the warning signs:
Chasing losses: Trying to win back the money lost by playing more
Obsessive thoughts: Becoming preoccupied with blackjack, including planning strategies and how to get gambling money
Chasing thrills: This is different from chasing losses in which the individual increases bets to get back the thrill from when they first played
Means of escape: Using Blackjack or gambling to escape problems, negative feelings, or mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, guilt, or shame
Losing control: Gambling can lead to a loss of control of one's life, including school and work opportunities
Borrowing or stealing money: Borrowing or stealing money to recoup losses
Hiding or lying about gambling: Lying to friends and family members about the extent of Blackjack playing or gambling habits
Some individuals might go through periods where they stop playing Blackjack or don't gamble at all. However, without treatment, this remission period doesn't go away on its own.
Treatment options for people addicted to Blackjack
The first part of treatment is admitting that you have a problem. However, it’s hard for some individuals due to guilt or shame. Treatment cannot happen without self-acceptance and self-assessment.
Blackjack addiction is treated similarly to gambling addiction. The treatment options for both include a combination of therapy, medication, and self-help groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps individuals identify their negative thoughts and beliefs and replace them with healthier ones. They will also learn healthy coping strategies.
Depending on the severity of the addiction, family therapy or couples counseling might be suggested. Medication can help treat any co-occurring mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
Some individuals might find it beneficial to talk to like-minded people who struggle with gambling addiction. Some mental health providers and treatment centers offer resources on self-help groups.
Virtual treatment from Birches Health includes all of these approaches. You'll schedule telephone or video chat visits with a licensed clinician who's knowledgeable in the area of gambling addiction. Treatment for any other behavioral or mental health issues might also be included in your therapy. The first step is to get a self-assessment and diagnosis.
How to get started with Birches:
What makes Blackjack addictive?
Several components can make Blackjack addictive to play. For some individuals, the brain releases dopamine, which evokes feelings of euphoria and joy. This can encourage the behavior and cause the individual to keep playing.
Some individuals might chase losses, which is a cycle of recouping the money they spend. This leads them to place large bets, which can cause financial problems.
Blackjack can be thrilling to play with friends and like-minded individuals. It's one of the few casino games that has a social aspect. Blackjack can also offer an escape from one's daily life and personal problems. These are just some of the reasons behind the game’s allure.
How popular is Blackjack?
Blackjack is considered one of the most widely known casino card games in the world. It's popular among young gamblers. Its popularity continues to this day, especially with the rise of gambling apps and casino websites.
Each form of gambling is designed with a house edge in mind to ensure casinos make more money over time. When it comes to Blackjack, they typically have a 0.5-1% edge, depending on the skill level of the player. This also gives the house a clear advantage.
Blackjack is different from other casino games in that you have ultimate control. You can reduce the house edge if you have an effective strategy in place. This is one way that you can control the outcome of the game.
However, your strategy and the choices you make will determine how the game will go. To maintain control of the game, you need to dominate and take the outcome into your hands. Still, there's an element of risk, as with all casino games.
