Compulsive Gambling Addiction
Gambling refers to any activity in which money or non-monetary value is gambled away, either by individuals, companies, or other entities. The motivation for gambling can be personal, social, or spiritual in nature. It is usually done by placing a bet, exchange or gamble with another person or group. There are two basic types of gambling: live gambling and online gambling. Live gambling takes place in public places where people may not gamble. Online gambling, however, is conducted exclusively over the Internet where no face-to-face interaction is necessary.
Most people associate addictions or gambling problems with physical dependency issues such as alcohol or prescription medications. However, these are just a small portion of all the factors that can lead to addiction. Another important factor that should be considered when developing gambling problems is the impact of the problem gambling upon one’s own life. This is especially important because many people become addicted to games because they have a significant psychological effect on their lives. Gambling addiction often has a significantly negative impact on one’s finances as well as relationships.
One of the most common and strongest motivating factors behind gambling addiction is the thrill associated with winning. People who gamble frequently tend to feel a sense of invulnerability and power when they “win” a game or other large sum of money. These feelings of power and invincibility cause those who gamble excessively to place a great deal of emphasis on winning in order to support those addictive behaviors and increase the amount of money that they gamble with.
There are many physical and psychological consequences that are associated with gambling addiction. Physical complications can include hypertension, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, heart palpitations, tremors, insomnia, headaches, fever, chills, blurred vision, liver damage, stomach disorders, aches, and vomiting. Psychological symptoms include irritability, anxiety, compulsive thoughts, depression, agitation, insomnia, suicidal thoughts, and aggressive behavior. Gambling addiction, however, is not a common addiction because most people who engage in this behavior do not realize the extent of their addiction until it manifests physically.
As of 2021, there are nine states within the united states that have legalized gambling: Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. The laws regarding these nine states vary somewhat from state to state, but all nine allow for legal gambling of Poker, Blackjack, Slots, Baccarat, Craps, Lottery, gambling systems, horse races, etc. In addition, as noted above, a number of states have legalized sports gambling as well. For example, there are currently two professional sports franchises in Nevada that are owned by the Maloof family. Both of these organizations currently face lawsuits that were brought against them regarding violations of gambling laws within their facilities.
This new development in the law allows for many more individuals to be able to get help for their problem gambling addiction. This is a positive step forward for many people who suffer from compulsive or addictive behaviors. Hopefully this trend continues and more people are able to receive treatment for their problems.