How Do You Know If You Have a Gambling Problem?
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Sep 18, 2024
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04:51 p.m.
ET
Gambling has become a part of today’s society that can’t be ignored. Everywhere we go, there are ads for betting apps, casinos and every gaming option in between. Social media is constantly targeting users with online games and sign-up bonuses. With the constant exposure to betting ads and potential desensitization toward the negative consequences of gambling, how do you know if you have a problem?
Learning to recognize the warning signs of a gambling addiction and what resources are available for problem gambling can help maintain a healthy relationship with gambling, and know if it may be becoming an issue.
Warning signs of potential gambling addiction
Gambling addiction can lead to serious consequences if it is not recognized and treated. Spotting the signs of gambling addiction can be difficult, but there are behaviors you can keep an eye out for that may indicate someone is struggling.
An excessive preoccupation with gambling activities or obsessing over when and how to bet again are common warning signs of gambling addiction. There are other indicators that someone may be suffering from gambling addiction. Additional signs include:
Inability to stop gambling, despite wanting to
Lying about or hiding gambling habits
Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
Having withdrawal-like symptoms when not gambling
Gambling becoming such a focus that it interferes with daily life
Financial or legal troubles due to gambling
Mood swings or irritability around gambling
How to assess gambling and sports betting behaviors
Are you maintaining a healthy relationship with gambling, or is it becoming more than a hobby? For many, gambling can quickly turn from a casual recreational activity into a problem that has severe negative impacts on other parts of daily life.
One of the best ways to help reduce the chances of developing a gambling addiction is to frequently assess gambling and sports betting behavior. Birches Health has a free self-assessment that asks questions around gambling habits to determine if you may be at risk of or are currently exhibiting problematic gambling behavior. There is also a comprehensive guide that provides information on how to assess and treat gambling addiction.
If you are still unsure about your gambling habits or are concerned about someone you know, Birches Health offers free consultations from a gambling addiction specialist. They can be reached by clicking here, calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com
How to avoid gambling addiction
Knowing the signs and behaviors that can put you at risk are a good first step in avoiding a gambling addiction. Developing a plan to keep gambling recreational and enjoyable should be a part of an ongoing process to evaluate your relationship with gambling. Steps that can be taken to avoid gambling addiction can include:
Set a time limit for gambling
Decide on a finite amount of money you can comfortably lose gambling
Take breaks
Have a gambling buddy to keep you accountable
Do not gamble while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Only take part in games if you fully understand the risks and rules
View gambling as a paid recreational expense
Don’t chase losses by betting more in hope of winning back what was lost
Educate yourself on the signs of gambling addiction
Gambling Addiction treatment options
There are various different treatment options that may be beneficial, depending on an individual's needs. Gambling addiction treatment may include an inpatient treatment stay, outpatient therapy, group or family counseling or peer support groups.
Treatment will depend on a person’s needs and severity of their addiction. Birches Health offers confidential virtual treatment from a team of gambling addiction specialists. Birches also offers other resources to help you on the road to recovery from gambling addiction.
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to speak with our Birches Health team today.
