Where can I get help with problem gambling?
Millions of people across the UK enjoy placing an occasional bet or enjoy the thrill of betting in a social game. For most, the fun is all part of a healthy social life or it makes a match more enjoyable to watch. However, sometimes, some of us feel, or our friends and loved ones feel, that it has got out of hand. This is when a fun bet veers towards problem gambling.
What is problem gambling?
We call betting problem gambling when it causes harm to the gambler. This may mean they suffer from stress, depression or anxiety over lost money, or their loved ones do. When gambling becomes stressful, it causes people to disassociate from their jobs, friends and families. The only thing on your mind is how to make up that lost money and the only answer seems to be by gambling more. In the end, this can lead to the breakdown of relationships, loss of employment, debt and even suicide.
Know the signs
The telltale signs of problem gambling are being dishonest about your gambling or hiding it from others, borrowing money to gamble with, and not being able to easily go a week or longer without gambling. If you’re constantly thinking things like “can you play poker online for real money?” or “where is the nearest bookies?”, it could be a sign that you are thinking about gambling too much.
Who will help me?
The best place to look for help is with a recognised and registered organisation, such as https://www.begambleaware.org. However, more and more online casinos and poker rooms, such as http://onlinecasinopokerroom.com/betonline-review/, are now actively working to prevent problem gambling by offering voluntary lockout periods for players who are concerned about addiction gambling.
Should I stop gambling?
Some people do choose to stop gambling altogether, but many still enjoy placing a bet now and again without facing any problems. In a recent survey, 45% of people in the UK said they had gambled sometime in the last month. Out of all these gamblers, only 0.5% are considered to be problem gamblers. However, age does seem to play a role and those aged between 18 and 24 who gamble are three times more likely to be problem gamblers. So, if you are worried about problem gambling, now is the time to seek help.
