Online Casino Addiction
What to Do if Addicted to Online Casinos
National Council on Problem Gambling Hotline
1-800-522-4700
Gambler’s Anonymous Official Website
www.gamblersanonymous.org
Almost any activity can become an addictive activity. However, some addictions can be more dangerous and carry heavier penalties than others. Of all the harmful addictions, addiction to online casinos is one of the most harmful. The first thing that you should know if you find that you are addicted is to realize that you are not alone. Thousands of people suffer from online casino addiction. You can take steps to separate yourself from that number.
Warning Signs of Online Casino Addiction
You typically hide your gambling: Gambling at land based casinos can sometimes be difficult to hide from friends and family. However, online gambling is usually quite easy whether you sneak away to gamble late at night or simply make the effort to conceal your gambling habits. If you do so, it is a typical warning sign of a gambling addiction.
You cannot control gambling limits: If you set a limit and then typically abandon that limit once you start gambling, you may be addicted to gambling. The classic feeling that you can get back ahead by spending more money is a serious warning sign of a gambling addiction.
You spend more than you can afford: Never deposit money that you need. There are heartbreaking stories of compulsive gamblers depositing their utility money to attempt to make enough money for rent only to lose it all. If this sounds like you, you likely have a gambling problem.
Mood Changes: One of the more difficult symptoms to spot in online gambling addiction is changes in personality when you participate in the activity. Along the same lines is the need to participate to return to a feeling of “normalcy”. These two warning signs often point to an addiction to gambling.
Taking Steps to Getting Casino Addiction Help
It may sound cliche, but the first step in the control of gambling is the realization that you have a problem. It may be difficult to admit your problem (especially if you are very deep in debt) but you will only do more damage by ignoring and hiding your problem.
You do not have to be alone in your treatment. In fact, banding together with other people with the same addiction is one of the best ways to get help. Gamblers Anonymous is a popular program that follows the same model used to help those dealing with alcohol addiction. Their website address is www.gamblersanonymous.org.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is psychiatric treatment that is often used to treat gambling addiction. Do not think that your problem is not serious enough for therapy. Small problems can rapidly spiral into very serious problems if left untreated. You are wise to visit a therapist if you have a problem, not weak.
The National Council on Problem Gambling maintains a free and confidential telephone support line for people that need immediate help with gambling urges and would like advice on how to quit. They are also there if you just need someone to talk to about your problem. Their 24 hour hotline is available by dialing 1-800-522-4700.
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