Gambling is, for the vast majority of punters that indulge, a fun, exciting and harmless pastime, and many even claim that it relieves the stresses of the working week! casino games such as slot machines, table games like craps and black jack, card games like poker, as well as betting on other sports like horse racing, baseball and football are extremely popular activities and are enjoyed by millions worldwide. However, just as some people cannot enjoy one relaxing drink without getting drunk, some people have problems controlling their gambling habit. The questions are, then, what are the signs of gambling addiction and how can the problem be treated in those afflicted?

There is no doubt that the fun and casual pastime of betting can develop into an all-consuming illness which can mushroom to envelop everyone, including both the individual concerned and those around him or her. Such a person will gradually be sucked in, risking more and more in pursuit of greater thrills, a larger payout and the desperate dream of recouping growing losses.

Such gambling is known as ‘habitual gambling’ and is classed as a progressive disorder. The consequences are wide-ranging and include financial, personal, physical and mental addictions. We can see from this just how all encompassing the problem can become. As with many addiction problems, often the first feature of the gambling addict is the denial response, even when confronted by the mounting evidence to suggest that there is, in fact, a very real problem. There is also a loss of control, as the gambler is totally unable to halt their decline into ever-increasing cycles of desperate and destructive behaviour. Such individuals are also likely to take greater and greater risks as the illness progresses.

Again, much in the same vein as alcoholism, there is no outright cure for gambling addiction; however, the cycles of habitual gambling can be halted and treated. Another central factor for the addict is that gambling will become the sun that their life revolves around, the central and overriding passion of their life. They will do anything to perpetuate their gambling, oblivious to the consequences to either themselves, their family or friends. Playing on sustainable sites such as คาสิโนออนไลน์ สล็อต มิติใหม่แห่งการพนัน may help to reduce such addiction.

Concerned friends and relatives may note the phases of extreme ecstasy when the addict wins, deep periods of stress and irritability when they lose, and all extremes in between when waiting for the next fix, depending on losses/wins.

You may also notice certain physical ailments developing, such as varying levels of anxiety, insomnia, constant headaches, lethargy and depression. Increased alcohol consumption and smoking are often related also.

As for treatment, the first objective is recognition of the problem. There is no panacea for gambling addiction, and it is a day-by-day recovery. Therapies such as cognitive, psychological, behavioural and relaxation can be used either in isolation or in combination. The addict must never gamble again, and must make substantial lifestyle changes in order to prevent relapsing. Alcohol, smoking and drugs should be avoided, as they are often triggers. Those with associated depression should seek psychological therapy and possibly medication. Therapy may not work quickly, as is often a long-term commitment. Remember, compulsive gambling is an illness, and should be treated as such.

Gambling addiction is a serious matter – stay current with the latest casino news so that you are aware of any new regulations and may be able to find some information for loved ones suffering from a gambling addiction.