Is Every Gambler an Addict?

Almost 80% of adults gamble, and for a lot of people, it is just harmless fun. However, for one percent of adults, it's not enjoyable- it turns into a serious problem. Gambling addiction is defined as gambling that interferes with a person's physical, social or psychological life. This article attempts to answer the question "Is every gambler an addict?" by listing seven warning signs of gambling disorder. However, diagnosis should be made by a qualified professional.

Many with gambling problems started gaming during their younger years, but like most addictions, gaming problems can affect anyone, regardless of economic background or gender. A gambling addict will bet on anything, even ordinary activities. Here are some warning signs that gambling has become a problem.

1. Preoccupation with gambling is one of the fastest ways to notice that someone has a problem. Reliving past wins and losses, planning far in advance for the next trip, and thinking of ways to get more gambling money are good examples of this preoccupation.

2. Escalation; gambling addicts get a physical "rush" that is quite like the high one would get from taking drugs. Signs of escalation could include raised heart rate, breaks with reality, and others. Much as is the case with drugs, problem gamblers can build up a tolerance, requiring more money than ever to recreate that "rush". A person addicted to gambling will spend their last penny; some even resort to illegal tactics to finance their habit.

3. Attempts to quit. A gambling addict may try to get their habit under control, albeit unsuccessfully. Multiple, unsuccessful attempts to quit gambling are a sure sign of an addiction. Like drug addicts, gambling addicts will get irritable, angry and restless during periods when they are "dry".

4. Escapism. It may seem on the surface that an addiction to gambling is a pleasure-seeking act, but like most other addictions, a gaming issue can stem from the addict's attempts to cover up some past trauma. Gambling can offer a rush that allows the person to forget their problems for a little while and focus on something else.

5. Chasing losses. If the person in question is always trying to win back what they've lost, they're "chasing". An addict will become obsessed with trying to recoup what they've lost, which can lead to financial woes.

6. Lying about gambling. Lying to family and friends about the money and time they spend on gambling is a sure sign of an addiction. A person with a gambling problem will often feel guilt over lying about where they've been and where their money has gone. The guilt compounds with the emotional issues, to bring about more gambling urges.

7. Alienation from those closest. When a person's gambling begins to crowd out their family, friends and career, it's a sign of trouble. Gambling addicts will gamble despite losing homes and relationships.

So- is every gambler an addict? The short answer is "No". Use the criteria above to judge whether you or someone close to you has a gambling problem, then seek the help of a professional. Like any other addiction, gambling problems can be stopped through group therapy, counseling, and inpatient treatment, and the first step to a cure is to acknowledge that there is a problem.