There is a reason why gambling has persisted throughout history as a popular, universal hobby. As a game of chance, it remains extremely exciting, keeping players entertained as they wait with bated breath to see if they will finally hit that jackpot or not. It’s not even just about big wins – small lucky moments matter, too. The mystery of not knowing is why betting is so enjoyable. But for some people, this enjoyment can be potentially harmful if it triggers any compulsive tendencies. To prevent this from happening, you need to learn how to play responsibly.
What Is Gambling Disorder?
When people develop an irresistible urge to gamble, doctors refer to this condition as a gambling disorder. Different from the mere enjoyment of casino games, gambling disorder can be detrimental to the individual, as it puts their mental, physical, and financial health in jeopardy.
Though it is different from substance abuse, gambling disorder, in many ways, resembles an addiction. The reason for this is the dopamine release gambling can cause. Dopamine is a hormone that plays a major role in the brain’s reward system, which is why the body interprets its release as a good feeling.
Some people like the dopamine rush from winning in casino games that they become psychologically dependent on it. Other aspects of their lives may suffer, with both mental and physical symptoms in place, but people with this condition would still feel like they are unable to stop gambling.
How To Prevent Problem Gambling
Though there is no bulletproof method of stopping compulsive gambling, and not everyone will be affected by it anyway, catching the condition as early as possible can dramatically improve a person’s odds of beating one’s dependence on casino games.
Some symptoms you may want to watch out for include:
- Thinking about gambling very often, to the point where thoughts about gambling feel intrusive and unstoppable.
- Skipping appointments and missing deadlines in order to keep playing in casinos.
- Lying about your gambling habits to friends and family and/or getting into arguments with them over it.
- Symptoms of depression and anxiety, such as sleep disturbances, mood swings, changes in weight and appetite, and so forth.
Though gambling disorder may look different for everyone, these are common symptoms that often indicate a person is developing compulsive betting habits. If that is the case for you or a loved one, please consult the following resources for more advice on how to manage this condition:
Remember that as long as you notice these symptoms early on and take action right away, you can limit the damage and potentially recover more quickly. Even if you are not struggling with compulsive gambling, it may be a good idea to follow these simple tips for responsible play:
- Use alarms and reminders to limit the time you spend in casinos.
- Set budget limits in advance and stick to them.
- If you wish to spend more time on the game you enjoy, play the demo where you don’t bet real money.
- Check if your online casino of choice has other ways and features to prevent problem gambling.