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80% How To Spot Symptoms and Warning Signs of Gambling Addiction
Problem gambling, or gambling addiction, is a mental health condition defined by the inability to resist the urge to gamble. It can cause serious detriment to mental well-being, finances, and personal relationships.
So, how can you recognize the warning signs? On this page, I’ll discuss the causes of problem gambling, what it looks like, and what you can do if you or a loved one is struggling.
What Causes Problem Gambling
Problem gambling doesn’t stem from a single cause but rather a combination of genetic, environmental, and cultural factors. Some people are inherently more susceptible to compulsive gambling. According to the Cleveland Clinic, 40–70% of a person’s propensity for addiction can be attributed to genetics. Environmental factors, such as exposure to gambling at a young age and cultural acceptance, can also have a major impact.
Of course, there are the games themselves. The flashing lights and colorful visuals are intentionally designed to keep users interested. Wins and near misses trigger the release of a feel-good chemical in the brain called dopamine. This neurotransmitter stimulates the brain’s reward system, similar to drugs and alcohol. People with mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, or substance use may also be at higher risk for developing a habit.
Warning Signs of a Gambling Addiction
Whether a gambling addiction is just developing or it’s in its advanced stages, recognizing the warning signs is the first step to making a change. We recommend players use the indications below to assess their condition and relationship to gambling.
Being Mentally Preoccupied With Gambling
A mental preoccupation with gambling is one of the first indications of a problematic habit. You might notice your thoughts are constantly looping back to gambling. Is it the first thing you think about when you wake up? Do you get the urge to gamble when you’re stressed, or is it distracting you throughout your day? These can all be signs of a developing issue.
If you know someone with a gambling disorder, you may notice the topic comes up in conversation more when it rarely or never did before.
Gradually Increasing Stakes To Get a Rush
Increasing your bet from fun-sized amounts to higher stakes is a common gambling addiction behavior. When everyday wagers no longer deliver the same level of dopamine they once did, players take greater risks to increase the rush. It can often happen without them even realizing it.
This symptom is especially true for online gambling, according to a study from Laramie, Wyoming. With retail gambling, players handle real cash. Meanwhile, online casinos’ digital setup makes it easy to spend with a single click. One easy way to keep yourself in check is to view your wagering history in your casino account.
Chasing Financial Losses Through Increased Bets
Players with gambling addiction will often chase losses. This risky behavior often results from a combination of psychological factors. One is the false belief that a win must be right around the corner. Two, is that even losses trigger a release of dopamine, which can result in impulsivity and poor decision-making.
This potent mix can lead even pro gamblers to dig themselves deeper into a financial hole. If you feel the urge to chase losses, set limits for yourself with the casino. If limits are unavailable, consider finding another site that offers loss limits or keep a budget to measure the amount spent. Understanding your cash flow on both your gambling account and bank account will provide a strong reality check into spending habits.
Lying to Family and Friends About Gambling Habits
When gambling develops into a problem, people often start lying to friends and family about their habit. They will commonly hide how much time they spend gambling, their financial losses, and how in control they really are. They may ask for money, become irritable or absent, or avoid certain questions.
These situations can indicate a person is prioritizing gambling over other areas of their life. It’s no surprise that this often results in a loss of trust and strain on personal relationships.
Is Problem Gambling Treatable?
Problem gambling is treatable at any stage, whether it’s a new development or a long-term addiction. It’s never too early or too late to ask for help. Most platforms offer responsible gambling tools, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion, and timed sessions. These tools are to help prevent or manage compulsive behaviors.
There are also free resources for those needing extra support:
Reach out to these organizations for gambling addiction guidance, support, and tools to aid in recovery.
