SIGNS OF PROBLEM GAMBLING
& PREVENTION TECHNIQUES
Problem gambling is an unfortunate reality for many players. Luckily, there are a few precautions you can take to ensure this never happens to you.
Check out just a few of the most popular ways to keep your gambling in check.
Never treat gambling as anything more than a source of entertainment - it should never become stressful or make you nervous
Fight the urge to chase your losses
Take note of the warning signs of problem gambling and addiction so it will be easier for you to identify a problem in you or those close to you and take action
Understand the rules and odds of the games you choose to play, while taking into consideration that the odds are almost always in favor of the house
Consider setting a budget for the amount of money you deposit and wager on gambling sites - this can help you keep your spending in check
Try to set a time limit for your gambling so you’ll be forced to stop when the time’s up
Treat any gambling losses as money spent on leisure activities while winnings should be considered as nothing more than a lucky side effect and not a source of income
Don’t forget that losing is part of the game
Recognizing Problem Gambling
While you may not have a gambling problem right now, it’s useful to be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of it just in case it affects you or someone you know in the future. Here are just a handful of the most common signs exhibited by those struggling with problem gambling.
Being careless with money
Allocating more cash than you can afford on gambling activities
Finding it hard to control your gambling
Arguments with loved ones become more frequent and usually revolve around gambling or money problems
Showing a loss of interest in activities which previously made you happy such as hobbies or spending time with relatives and friends
Feeling compelled to chase your losses while considering gambling as an escape from financial difficulties
Throwing away all your savings on gambling, borrowing money, selling your possessions and avoiding bills to spend more money on gambling
Always thinking or talking about gambling, being deceptive about your gambling habits going so far as to lie or try to hide it from those around you
Thoughtlessly betting larger amounts of money or investing more time on gambling than before just to get the same kick
Ignoring your responsibilities to dedicate all your time to gambling
Gambling makes you feel guilty, anxious, irritable, or depressed
Allowing gambling to affect your work and other responsibilities
