Problem gambling or gambling addiction is a progressive condition similar to addiction to alcohol or drugs. Persons with a gambling addiction have difficulty controlling their gambling behaviour, even when it has serious negative consequences for them and their families. Their gambling behaviour increases over time, both in frequency and amount wagered.
Problem gambling develops from social gambling and a person typically goes through 3 stages in developing an addiction:
The Winning Phase
The person starts gambling as a social pastime, experiences the euphoria of winning and this fuels further gambling behaviour.
The Losing Phase
In this phase the gambler starts to lose control and becomes impulsive. He tries to win back his losses. If losses accumulate, he will lie and cover up to escape detection.
The Desperation Phase
At this phase, life is out of control as losses become unmanageable. Gamblers feel powerless, remorseful and desperate.
Gambling is their primary source of income. They are very controlled and are able to keep within self-prescribed bounds.
Casual Social Gamblers
Those who gamble infrequently and for the enjoyment. It doesn't affect any major areas in their lives.
Serious Social Gamblers
Gambling has become a major pastime and source of entertainment for these gamblers. Although the gamblers can stop, they would miss it.
Relief and Escape Gamblers
Gambling is a major activity in the person's life, of equal importance with family and business. However the gambling has not started to impair the gambler's life and relationships.
Compulsive / Pathological Gamblers
Gambling is the major thing in life. They are unable to stop and lose control of their gambling habits. If untreated, their gambling behaviour would lead to despair, loss of hope, and even imprisonment.
The good news is that people do recover from gambling addiction. Recovery begins with the desire to change, and the person with a gambling addiction is more likely to stay away from gambling with the right support. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help. Honesty and consistency are key factors in recovery.
