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Tuesday, January 29, 2013

8 signs you're a gambling addict

Gambling Addiction has become such a widespread problem that MSM addresses the issue more frequently --

8  signs you're a gambling addict

Millions of Americans have a gambling problem. Whether you're buying lottery tickets or making stock market bets, here's how to take control of the problem.

 
This post comes from Jeffrey Trull at partner site Money Talks News.

Money Talks News logoFor most, gambling is a few hours of fun at the slots, a weekly card game with friends or the occasional flyer in the stock market. But for some, there's a dark side: addiction tha can lead to personal and financial ruin.

The National Council on Problem Gambling reports that 1% of the U.S. adult population, or 2 million people, meets the criteria for pathological gambling. An additional 4 million to 6 million Americans are "problem gamblers" who display some of the symptoms pathological gamblers do. Potential problems from gambling go beyond financial. Untreated, addiction can lead to legal problems, family and relationship issues, job loss and an increased risk of suicide.

http://money.msn.com/family-money/article.aspx?post=d227b2c1-9cdb-4eaf-ae7f-51c64450c29e



Tips to help a gambler quit
Whether it's the stock market or a game of cards, gambling is fun until it gets out of control.           
 



In addition to these warning signs, you can take a test on compulsive gambling on the Gamblers Anonymous website.

If you believe you're addicted, there are steps you can take to help you quit. Taking early action is the key to salvaging your job, relationships and bank account.
  • Admit you have a problem. Gambling is like any addiction: The first step is to admit you have a problem. Experts say treatment won't be effective if the addict can't take this important first step. Admitting to the problem means you're ready to make an effort to stop.
  • Get support. Gambling addictions are hard to fight alone. Family and friends can be good sources of support, and Gamblers Anonymous can help recovering addicts share their experiences and find encouragement.
  • Avoid temptation. Addicts have to avoid environments that lead to gambling. Stay away from casinos, race tracks, poker games or anything else that might remind or tempt you. Cut bad influences out of your life. Take away sources for financing for your habit by giving control of your money to your spouse or someone else. If you're using credit cards to fund your habit, cut them up and close the accounts.
  • Replace gambling with something positive. Find a replacement activity or hobby. Whether it's jogging, rock climbing or fly fishing, find something to take the place of gambling.
  • Seek professional help. The intensity of treatment for gambling addiction varies case by case. Up to 70% of those with a gambling addiction may have other psychiatric conditions, making additional treatment necessary, says MedicineNet.com. Psychotherapy may be a part of treatment, and medications are sometimes prescribed that help reduce the urge to wager. Certified gambling counseling is available through the National Counsel on Problem Gambling, something often recommended in addition to Gamblers Anonymous and family support.
Bottom line? Gambling comes in many forms, from a $2 lottery ticket to a $200,000 stock market bet. While there's nothing wrong with the occasional wager, when it starts negatively impacting your life, you should take control of the problem before it takes control of you.

 

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