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Gambling Addiction

by Max Bellamy

For some, the excitement of gambling can be addicting. The feeling can be seductive and alluring, causing some gamblers to succumb to gambling addiction. 

Addiction is a compulsive need one feels, causing him or her to do anything so that it is satisfied at once. Often times, what starts out as a pleasurable experience turns into an uncontrollable, destructive craving that needs to be satiated at all times. Some people get addicted to food, alcohol, drugs, sex and gambling.

How do you know if a person as addicted to gambling? When the thrill of the game becomes more important compared to everything else. Most often, arguments, disappointments and frustration result in an urge to gamble. Those addicted to gambling suffer both personally and professionally. Oftentimes, their families also suffer devastating loss not only materially, but also socially.

If you feel that you or someone you know might be addicted to gambling, visit such organizations as ‘Gamblers Anonymous.' They give twenty indicators of gambling addiction. These indicators include loss of time for work or family due to gambling, and adverse effects on one's reputation and life at home that add to a feeling of remorse that most gambling addicts feel.

Another sign of gambling addiction is resorting to gambling as a means to pay debts and solve financial difficulties. Gamblers typically return to the gambling table at once after losing to recover the losses. Others, upon winning, feel the urge to go back to win more, often gambling away their last penny.

Other indications that gambling has become an addiction include either borrowing money from other people to finance gambling or selling anything to have some money to gamble. The refusal to use gambling money for other expenditures and being careless for the welfare of oneself and one's family are also signs to watch out for. Gambling addicts find it difficult to sleep, and some even consider self- destruction and suicide.

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