Online Betting Addiction: Signs, Treatment and Recovery
Author:
Zach Lutz
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Nov 8, 2024
,
03:25 p.m.
ET
Online betting addiction, or internet gambling disorder, involves a compulsive and persistent engagement in online betting activities despite negative consequences. As online gambling becomes more accessible and widely accepted across the United States, this addiction has grown, affecting individuals of all ages, especially younger people. Here we’ll explore what online betting addiction is, its causes and warning signs and the ways to diagnose, treat and support recovery.
What is Online Betting Addiction a.k.a. Gambling Disorder?
Online betting addiction is a type of gambling disorder recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). It involves a compulsive engagement in online gambling, often with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same thrill. Those affected may struggle to control their gambling, jeopardize personal relationships and even resort to illegal activities to fund their habit.
Studies show that online gambling is on the rise, especially among adolescents due to technological advancements and progressive legalization of online gaming platforms.
The accessibility and anonymity of online gambling make it uniquely addictive. Unlike casino gambling, which requires planning and often a social aspect, online betting can occur from anywhere, at times leading individuals to gamble more frequently and aggressively. The psychological tactics used in online gambling platforms, such as bright visuals and dopamine-triggering sounds and enticing rewards, can further enhance the addictive experience, drawing individuals back to gamble more.
Warning Signs of Online Betting Addiction
Recognizing the signs of online betting addiction can be the first step toward seeking help. Key warning signs include:
Preoccupation with Online Gambling: Individuals may find themselves constantly thinking about gambling, planning their next bets and strategizing ways to obtain more money to gamble. These thoughts can impact daily responsibilities and interfere with social interactions.
Mood Swings: Winning can lead to euphoric feelings, while losing may result in severe frustration, creating a rollercoaster of emotions. This can cause rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, at times affecting personal relationships.
Increasing Betting Amounts: Many people struggling with addiction feel the need to gamble with more money to experience the same excitement, often leading to financial losses.
Difficulty Stopping or Reducing Gambling: Those addicted often make repeated, unsuccessful attempts to cut back on gambling, similar to withdrawal symptoms in substance dependence. Compulsion can lead to continued gambling despite the desire to stop.
Chasing Losses: In a pattern known as “chasing losses,” individuals continue to gamble in attempts to recoup money lost previously. This behavior can increase risks and perpetuates the addiction.
Causes of Online Betting Addiction
Several factors can contribute to the development of online betting addiction. They include:
Other Mental Health Challenges: There are high rates of co-occurring disorders among gamblers. These can include:
Anxiety
Depressions
Personality disorders
Substance abuse
Psychological Triggers: Online betting platforms are designed to capture attention through engaging visuals, immersive audio and reward-based systems. These psychological triggers create a cycle of reward-seeking behavior, making it harder for individuals to disengage.
Personality Characteristics: Some personality characteristics can be connected to gambling problems. For example, an individual with low self-directedness may have trouble accepting responsibility for their actions or their choices. Other personality traits that may be correlated with an increased likelihood of gambling disorder include:
Impulsivity
Indecision
Personalities who seek thrills and excitement
Culture: Certain groups of people have shown higher rates of gambling than others. For example, a 2017 study found that Hispanic people are more likely to gamble than other ethnic groups. Current military members and veterans are also at a higher risk of developing a gambling addiction.
Age: Recent research has shown that young males are at higher risk of gambling addiction, with incidence up to 3 times higher than the general population.
How Online Betting Addiction is diagnosed
Diagnosing online betting addiction involves evaluating patterns in behavior, personal impact and efforts to stop. Mental health professionals assess these factors through interviews, questionnaires and behavior tracking. As mentioned above, diagnoses involve criteria from the DSM-5 for gambling disorder, such as preoccupation, the need to gamble with increasing amounts, failed attempts to stop and continued betting despite adverse outcomes.
Treatment options for Online Betting Addiction
Several treatment options exist to help individuals overcome online betting addiction:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals recognize and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors associated with gambling. It focuses on developing coping strategies and addressing the root causes of the addiction.
Counseling and Support Groups: Group therapies and support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, provide a community of understanding and shared experiences. These resources create a support network that is crucial for recovery.
Self-Exclusion Programs: Many online gambling platforms offer self-exclusion options, allowing individuals to block themselves from accessing the site. This can be an effective first step in reducing gambling frequency.
Digital Detox: Limiting online activity or engaging in a structured digital detox can help reduce the temptation to gamble, especially on mobile devices.
Birches Health offers specialized virtual Gambling Addiction treatment and has a wide range of services for those who need support managing their gambling habits:
Individual therapy sessions
Virtual group therapy sessions
Workshops and webinars
Articles, videos and guides on Gambling Addiction and recovery
Self-assessment tests
Coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques
You can get started with Birches Health in a number of ways:
How to help someone else with Online Betting Addiction
Supporting someone with online betting addiction can be challenging, but certain steps can make a difference:
Open Communication: Approach the individual with compassion and express concern without judgment. Let them know you’re there to support them without criticizing their behavior.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest seeking help from a mental health professional specializing in addiction. Professional support can provide tools and guidance needed for long-term recovery.
Set Boundaries: If their gambling behavior affects you, set clear boundaries to protect your well-being while supporting their recovery journey.
Offer Emotional Support: Let them know they are not alone in this struggle. Encourage them to share their feelings and celebrate small victories.
Can medications help treat Online Betting Addiction?
Typically medication is not the first line of treatment for gambling addiction. However, in certain cases, they may complement behavioral therapies. Some medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, can be prescribed to manage symptoms of underlying mental health issues, like depression or anxiety, that may contribute to gambling behavior. Always consult a medical professional before pursuing this option.
Is online betting more dangerous than in-person gambling?
Many experts believe that online betting poses unique risks compared to in-person gambling. Its 24/7 availability, ease of access and solitary nature make it easier for individuals to gamble more frequently and in larger amounts. The anonymity associated with online platforms can also make it challenging to recognize when someone is struggling with addiction, as there are fewer physical or social checks.
A 2009 study by June Cotte and Kathryn A. Latour highlighted that online gamblers tend to gamble more frequently and aggressively than those who gamble in person. Since online betting can be integrated into daily routines, individuals may be more likely to gamble excessively without immediate social consequences.
Additionally, younger individuals are especially vulnerable to online betting addiction due to their digital proficiency and familiarity with online platforms. With the rise of technology and online advertising, younger users are exposed to betting opportunities more often, making them more susceptible to at-risk behaviors.
