Gambling Addiction
From WIN-ipedia - information and strategies about winning
Introduction
Many people gamble without ever encountering a problem; they may buy a lottery ticket, or go to the racetrack occassionally, or spend an evening at the 'bingo'. When the lure of the game is over, they go on to other non-gambling activities.
However, for some people, gambling takes on much more importance in their lives... and becomes a problem. The gambling urge may cause only occasional problems in the gambler's life. Or it may have an ongoing debilitating impact on the gambler and their family. The end result could be excessive debt, marriage problems and even illegal activity.
How not to lose
Don't let gambling rule your life. Look out for these signs - do you:
- Spend large amounts of time gambling; allowing little time for family, friends or other interests?
- Place larger, more frequent bets?
- Have growing debts?
- Feel secretive or defensive about money?
- Pin your hopes and dreams on the "big win" you feel is coming your way soon?
- Promise to cut back on gambling, but feel unable to reduce or stop your gambling?
- Refuse to explain your behaviour (or lies about it)?
- Feel frequent highs and lows?
- Boast about winning but make light of your losses?
- Prefer gambling to any special family occasion?
If you feel you can answer "Yes" to more than one of these questions you may have a problem with gambling. Seek help and advice.
External Links
http://www.gamcare.org.uk/ GamCare has a commitment to promote responsible attitudes to gambling and to work for the provision of proper care for those who have been harmed by gambling dependency. GamCare also have an advice line: 0845 6000 133
http://www.addictions.co.uk/addiction.asp?id=gamb Gambling Addiction advice
