Online Betting - More than a harmless hobby (an addiction)

Posted by | Posted on 2:21 AM

By Donald

Although an online betting addiction does not have the same physical characteristics as someone suffering from a chemical dependency or need for alcohol, this form of addiction can be just as dangerous and harmful to the individual and his family.

A gambling addict has three phases he finds himself perpetually cycling through. There is the initial phase, which is where the sickness begins. In this stage the online betting gambler will have the most fun while he is in a winning state. He then will merge into the second stage where he re-invests his winnings and starts to lose.

How do you know if your loved one will become addicted?

Once a loan shark has entered the picture, crimes can be committed such as assault on family members if the money is not paid back in time. This can cause even more stress on the gamblers conscience. If situations become severe enough, an person suffering from a gambling addiction may even take his own life fearing that is the only way to save his family from the mess he has created.

They lose concentration, often seeming to be somewhere other than where they physically are. They become anti social, lose the ability to show or feel emotions like the average person does, sometimes they will steal to support their habit, often they can't be bothered to have a shower or keep a clean appearance, Most people suffering from addiction will not see the reality of their situation. They fool themselves into thinking they can quit at any time if they decide to, or that the next big win at the table will make everything ok again and they will walk away for good.

How can you help?

As the economy gets worse, jobs are lost, the lure of easy money for a minimal investment is harder to resist for many. Having a support system in place to keep track of your playing before it has a chance to get out of control.

And finally there is family who can show they care by helping them in healthy ways reminding them of what they have to live for. It is often hard for family to stand by and watch as a person they love is consumed with this sickness and looses all control. Hanging in there, praying, reminding them of happy times and things they used to love, will all eventually stick with them when they reach a time where they feel they could use the help. Some people do not ever reach their breaking point but it is more common for someone who has a support system to care to find their way back to recovery. If you know someone who is suffering from an addiction of some sort, knowing the steps you can take, and where you can call or visit to find help for an intervention, will help you offer the support your loved one needs.

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