Battling addiction of any form affects not only a person’s well-being but also the people around them. Addiction alters a person’s brain function, leading them to make irrational decisions. Compulsive gambling or gambling disorder is one addiction that “can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol can.” According to the University at Buffalo, over 80% of Americans gamble each year, and around three to five out of every 100 have a gambling problem. Today, we can observe every form of gambling. Just like most things in this digital age, from education to commerce, gambling has found its way online.
Acknowledging the problem as the first step
In the Philippines alone, there are tons of horror stories about piling debts due to online gambling addiction. During the pandemic, the number of those addicted to online gambling rose due to the ease of access. Incorporating mobile payment apps enables users to easily cash in and out.
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As with any ailment, the first step in combating online gambling addiction is accepting that there is a problem. Knowing the diagnosis of a disease will enable a person to seek the proper medication, treatment, and care. Addiction has physical and mental manifestations. Therapy and medication are available for those who cannot resist the compulsion of online gambling.
Seeking help
Breaking free from addiction, especially online gambling, can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Seeking help from loved ones is a crucial first step, as they can provide emotional and financial support during this difficult time. However, relying solely on personal connections may not be sufficient to address deeper issues or provide the necessary tools for long-term recovery.
Therapy plays a crucial role in overcoming addiction, and online therapy or treatment has made professional help more accessible than ever. With online therapy, individuals can connect with licensed professionals from the comfort of their homes, making it easier to take that first step. Early intervention through therapy, whether in-person or online, dramatically increases the chances of a full recovery and helps individuals regain control of their lives.
Risk and prevention
Gambling is a risk. Not only will you be gambling your hard-earned money, but also your time, emotions, and health. When something goes beyond a person’s control, it becomes powerful enough to destroy anything within its path. Knowing the risks and possible effects that online gambling could cause, one should always be cautious before venturing into this world. Although treatment methods are available, the risk of relapse is also possible. The allure of online gambling and online casinos can be dangerously enticing, with easy access and the promise of quick rewards.
Before you go: Gaming Addiction Is Now Recognized by the WHO
However, this accessibility also amplifies the risks, making it easier for habits to form and harder to break free once addiction takes hold. For individuals struggling with gambling addiction, self-exclusion tools such as blacklists can be invaluable. By voluntarily placing oneself on these lists, access to gambling sites can be restricted, creating a barrier between the individual and their addictive behavior. This proactive approach can be a robust measure to prevent setbacks and manage impulses, providing a necessary safeguard in the journey toward recovery and control.
Closing thoughts
According to Statista, the online gambling market is expected to grow at a rate of 5.42% by 2029, resulting in increased revenue. That will be $133 billion by 2029, from $107.70 billion in 2025. Time will only tell how significant an impact the gambling industry will have in the future, whether it’s on the economy or our personal lives. While succumbing to our desires may help us destress, there may be better ways to relax without putting ourselves at risk. As the saying goes, “The house always wins.”
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Christopher Isak with Midjourney for TechAcute.
Source: University at Buffalo / Statista
