Online gambling is the virtual version of the popular traditional casino experience we know. It involves using real money to play gambling games online. You can play several games, such as poker, bingo and slots.
Apart from the various games you can choose from, online gambling is also convenient and accessible from anywhere. It is private and safe, and the thrill of winning is a source of great happiness. Due to numerous reasons, online gambling has become so popular that the negative aspect is thriving: addiction.
How to Have a Healthy Relationship With Online Gambling
Due to its ability to stimulate the brain’s reward system, online gambling can help release feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, making gamblers relaxed and happy. Without the losers-jeering and restless environment of casinos, online gamblers feel safer and tend to relax more.
However, it is worth noting that the impulse to chase losses and win at all costs can lead to compulsive gambling, which can cause gambling addictions. Gambling addiction has destroyed many people, leading them to financial ruin, depression, and social stagnation.
The statistics show that about 80% of Americans are gamblers. Hence, the need to protect yourself from falling into addictive gambling or find a way to come out immediately if you become a victim of gambling addiction.
Understand Online Gambling and Its Impacts
It is difficult to guard yourself against something you are not properly educated on. Therefore, the first aspect of building resilience and finding ways to recover gambling losses is fully understanding the subject. Know exactly what gambling is and what drives you to it. Also, identify if your drive is purely for entertainment or to make money.
Have Breaks and Stop in Time
One major advantage online gambling has over traditional gambling is that you can easily put everything on pause and take a break. This is because online gambling is based on technology, which strives to give you absolute control.
Checks you can put in place for yourself to reduce the risk of getting addicted to online gambling include:
- Setting a screen time for the gambling apps on your phone;
- Freezing your gambling apps to take a break for a while;
- You can take it further by deleting your gambling account for a longer break;
- Setting a limit for the amount you can spend on gambling;
- Do not link a card or bank account where most of your money stays with your betting account.
Know the Risk Factors and Warning Signs
Another important aspect of guarding yourself against addictive gambling is knowing what can lead you to become a compulsive gambler. If you start gambling because of reasons like hiding your problems, getting over depression and winning by all means, you might have a problem of getting addicted.
Although bonuses like a $5 no deposit casino are in place to keep players enjoying their games, you should know when to stop. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you notice any of the behaviours we will be listing soon, as it may be a pointer to you becoming an addicted gambler. Seek help if you:
- Are unable to take a break from gambling;
- Start isolating yourself to gamble;
- Start borrowing money to gamble;
- Become aggressive when someone advises you against gambling;
- Feel restless when you have not gambled;
- Gamble to forget your problems;
- Keep chasing your losses without relenting.
Seek Support When Necessary
No one is perfect. No matter how much work you put into it, you may eventually fall victim to gambling addiction for many reasons. For example, you might be tempted to continue playing when you notice that you’ve been offered a $5 no deposit casino bonus. While this offer is tempting, don’t hesitate to work away if you’ve reached your daily limit to gamble.
The best thing to do when you notice yourself getting addicted is not to deny it. Denial will only make it worse. Although it may feel like you’re powerless to stop gambling, there are many things you can do to overcome the problem. Below are some support systems you can harness to help you fight gambling addiction:
| Support |
How They Can Help |
Possible Disadvantages |
| Therapists |
They are professionals who can address the psychological aspect of the issue |
Their services can be expensive |
| Counsellors |
Similar to therapists, they are professionals. And they can use their training and experience to offer you guidance |
Religious and community counsellors can be judgemental |
| Family and friends |
They can admonish you and keep you busy with other productive tasks. This support is free and can be easily accessed |
They might not be confidential |
Conclusion
Gambling addiction can happen to anyone. Your gambling goes from a fun, harmless activity to an unhealthy obsession with adverse effects. However, online gambling can be properly managed through a series of mental preparedness, caution, education, and support. This article has extensively discussed how to maintain one’s wit to prevent becoming an addicted gambler.
