Online gambling addiction

When fun turns into frenzy.

What is it?

Compulsive or addictive gambling has been around for centuries, but with the advent of the Internet there is a new form of addictive gambling on the block. With the click of a mouse, people can play poker and bingo, bet on sporting events and have fun with online casinos. As with all things in life, these activities are fine in moderation. The problem starts when people are unable to stop. Sometimes things go so far that people neglect their personal health, their family/friends and their work or studies. As with all addictions, the person’s life may become a complete mess as a result of the gambling; yet the person becomes unable to stop.

Signs

People who are addicted to Internet gambling may exhibit the following signs:

Trouble controlling their gambling - They may promise to take a day off, but won’t be able to follow through. Or they may promise to bet less money, but not be able to.
Secrecy - They may try to hide their gambling. They may hide how much time they spend gambling, the sites they visit and the amount they bet.
Emotional reactions to being offline - They may become upset if they cannot get to a computer.
Lying about their usage - They may lie to people about the amount of time they spend online.
Lying about bets – They may lie about the money they spend online.
Mood changes - They may act or seem to feel grumpy/upset/stressed when they are not online.
Neglect of relationships - They may neglect family, friends, personal hygiene and work/school/college responsibilities.
Time wasting - They may spend excessive amounts of time online.
Withdrawal from socialising - They may lose interest in socialising and have no interest in their usual social routine.

How to deal with:

Firstly, the person needs to accept they need help before they can get better.
Many people with this problem will benefit from specialised addiction counselling such as CBT.
Supports groups such as Gamblers Anonymous may be enormously helpful.
A doctor may be able to prescribe some medication that helps with the period of withdrawal from gambling.
Many people find that taking up an exciting substitute hobby such as hiking, rock climbing or surfing makes it easier to stay away from gambling.
Relaxation techniques can be very useful for addictions. Activities such as yoga, pilates, mediation and even baths can really be helpful.

How to help a mate/partner dealing with:

Be a listening ear. Keep in touch via text, phone calls, IM and visits. Let your friend/partner know that he can vent to you anytime. Try not to give advice, just listen as best as you can.
Offer to do an activity or new hobby with them. Maybe take up a yoga class together. Or join your friend/partner in more ‘out there’ activities such as rock climbing.
Seek out a support group for family and friends of gamblers, if you have been affected by your friend’s gambling.
Encourage them to seek out professional help. If they are already seeing someone, encourage them to keep appointments and to keep working on their issue.

Further Information:

www.gamblersanonymous.ie/

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See the help section for contact details of support organisations.