How to Gamble Responsibly

Gambling can be a fun social activity but, like everything else, it should be done in moderation. Excessive gambling can lead to a long list of problems, from relationship difficulties to financial trouble. Like any other addiction, it can also cause problems with employment and eventually result in illegal activities like stealing. Even before a true addiction develops, an individual can face negative consequences of gambling and find it extremely difficult to stop. This phase is called 'problem gambling.' Getting help during that time will make the recovery process easier.

There are some telltale signs that can be used to determine whether you or a loved one has a gambling problem. The biggest warning signal to look for in another person is financial trouble due to gambling, because this shows that they keep doing it regardless of negative consequences. They may lie or keep secrets about money. Asking for loans, missing valuables, lack of money, collection agencies calling, having unexplained cash, and any other big changes in financial habits are things to watch for. A lack of money troubles doesn't necessarily mean that someone does have a gambling problem, though.

There are also some other things to look for in yourself if you think that you might have a problem. People with a gambling addiction often use the activity to avoid or escape from the rest of their life. They may gamble to celebrate good times and to avoid thinking about bad time. They put off other responsibilities and feel guilty. Problem gamblers also try to convince themselves that they'll be able to win back everything they've lost or imagine what they will do when they win millions.

Because of the abundance of gambling sites on the Internet, more and more people are developing addictions to it. Women and especially teenagers are now more likely to start gambling excessively than in the past. The Internet also makes it easier to hide activities from loved ones, and people can be drawn in by starting with play money and then very small betting amounts. It's much more obvious when someone is leaving to go to a casino than when they are simply sitting at a computer.

In some places, casinos are required to monitor and watch for signs of uncontrollable gambling. Where it's not required by law, many people believe that they have a responsibility to do so. Monitoring is often done with video cameras. They pay special attention to the people who go through large amounts of money. It also becomes obvious to casino workers when someone has a gambling addiction and spends excessive time there. All to often, though, they end up enabling rather than helping the problem.

Many casinos also have hotlines to help people who have a gambling problem. Some numbers to call can be found at the Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline, The Problem and Compulsive Gambling Helpline, and the Illinois Gaming Board site.

Resources for Excessive Gambling

National Council on Problem Gambling

Gamblers Anonymous

Gambling Addiction & Recovery Support Group

Gambling Help

I Stopped Gambling

Gaming Tip Sites

Gambling Science

Casino Game Strategies

Las Vegas Casino Gambling Guide