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Keeping Yourself Safe From Gambling Addiction

Keeping Yourself Safe From Gambling Addiction

Gambling involves risking something of value for a chance to win a prize. It can be done by playing games of chance, like scratch cards, fruit machines and sports betting, or through activities that involve a mixture of skill and luck, such as poker, fantasy leagues and online gambling. Some forms of gambling are illegal, while others are legal in most states.

People gamble for many reasons, including to have fun, socialise and escape from problems or stress. However, gambling can become harmful for some people. If you are unable to control your urges and start losing money, borrowing money or spending more than you can afford, it may be time to seek help.

The prevalence of gambling in the United States has increased substantially over the past decade. It has become an activity that can be readily available at any age and in most settings, from casino gaming to lottery tickets and online gambling. There is a growing role for generalist physicians to evaluate patients with pathological gambling behaviors, particularly in primary care settings. This article discusses the rationale for viewing pathological gambling as an addictive disorder, reviews data on health associations of gambling patterns and outlines screening for and treatment options.

It can be easy to overlook the dangers of gambling, especially if you are not in a gambling environment regularly or if you have a limited amount of time to gamble each week. But the risk is real, and you should be aware of the warning signs and understand how gambling works so you can play responsibly.

Keeping yourself safe from gambling addiction requires commitment and hard work. Here are some things you can do to stay on track:

Don’t go into casinos unless you have your own money to spend. Having a set amount of cash to spend will keep you from overdoing it and make it easier for you to leave when your time is up.

Be a positive role model and explain gambling to your children. If you have kids, encourage them to play only if they can afford to lose the money. Talk to them about how the odds of winning are low and that it is possible to lose a lot of money for a small payout.

If you are struggling with a gambling problem, consider joining a support group. Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program based on Alcoholics Anonymous, is one such option. These groups provide support from other people who have overcome their gambling problems and can help you develop a plan to quit.

Try to limit your access to money by getting rid of credit cards (or only using them with a spouse or parent in charge), closing your online betting accounts and asking friends not to invite you to gamble. You should also limit your trips to places where you can gamble and stay away from sports bars or other gambling-related events. Finally, don’t stop at the casino or TAB on your way to work—these places are designed to lure you in and distract you from your goals.