Gambling Addiction – What Are the Symptoms of a Gambling Addiction?

If you or someone you love is struggling with a gambling addiction, you need to seek help. Getting treatment is the first step to recovery, and can save your relationship with your loved one and restore your financial health.

Gambling addiction occurs when people engage in compulsive gambling despite the negative impact it has on their lives and those around them. It may affect relationships, finances, and employment.

Symptoms of a Problem

The most obvious sign of gambling addiction is when you lose money or control over your spending because of it. You may find yourself maxing out credit cards, pawning items or selling personal property to cover losses, or exhausting your savings.

A losing cycle develops in which you continue to gamble because you think you can win back your losses. This cycle causes the craving to grow and your ability to resist is weakened.

Family members and friends may feel threatened by a gambling addict’s behavior and attempt to control them. This can lead to resentment, anger, and depression.

Staged intervention

If you suspect a loved one is struggling with gambling, you should stage an intervention to let them know that they’re making a mistake and asking for assistance. The conversation can be scary at first, but it’s important to get the facts straight.

Addiction thrives on shame, so it’s crucial to treat your loved one with dignity and respect. You need to show them that you care about them and you want to do all you can to help.