Gambling can also be a beautiful thing; it can be a great art of relaxation. And not every gambler develops an addiction and there is nothing wrong with responsible gambling. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to enjoy your next game and not worry about being a person with a gaming addiction.
What to remember if you are a gambler? Every game should be fun. Unfortunately, with gambling, there is always the danger of developing a dependency. Although only a small proportion of gamblers develop a gambling addiction – it is nevertheless sensible to observe a few rules of conduct.
You smell nothing. You see nothing. And yet there is something there. Trust your gut feeling.
A gambling addiction, unlike other addictions (e.g. alcohol), is an inconspicuous addiction. You won’t find any hidden bottles and you can’t observe any obvious features (e.g., the smell of alcohol, “slurring” etc.). This makes it difficult for those around to recognize a gambling addiction. Nevertheless, some characteristics may indicate a gambling problem:
How does a gambling addiction develop?
Gambling addiction can develop for a while, easily hidden and concealed from other people. There are initially no noticeable outward physical changes in gambling addicts. Often, gambling addicts realize too late that their gambling behaviour is causing problems. The earlier the addiction to gambling is recognized, the better the chances of treatment in the form of therapy.
Three stages:
The transition from gambling behaviour of a spasmodic nature to problem gambling behaviour to addiction is smooth and often develops over years (source DHS):
Important rules for all the gamblers:
Set yourself a limit that you do not want to exceed.
Talk to friends and family about your gambling habits.
Do not conceal any losses.
Do not fall back on savings.
Do not try to make up for losses with winnings.
Do not trust “winning strategies” or other “tips” to increase your chances of winning.
Do not gamble while intoxicated.
Find out how to recognize a gambling addiction.
Players with problem gambling behaviour
Do not gamble with other people’s money.
Do not take out loans to finance gambling.
Realize: you cannot influence your chances of winning.
Beware of superstitions! Certain rituals, choosing the “right” machine or a “lucky streak” do not help.
Accept losses. Striving for compensation only leads to further losses.
Do not try to solve your problems by continuing to gamble.
Ask for help in time.
Pathological gamblers
Visit a counselling centre for gambling.
Get an overview of the financial situation.
Don’t panic. A cure is possible at all stages of gambling addiction.
Talk openly with your family about the problem.
Beware of illegal activities! Even “semi-illegal” things are criminal.
Set aside a certain amount of money for emergencies. If you are tempted to use this reserve for gambling, ask a friend or relative to manage it.
Confide in a good friend or counselling centre if you are having suicidal thoughts.
There is no shame and no sign of weakness in accepting help!