Gambling Addiction: You Can't Win
Most addictions begin when people do something frequently because it makes them feel good. Smoking and drinking alcohol are probably the most common addictions, but there are many other types. One common addiction is gambling. Although we hear less about gambling than smoking and drinking alcohol, gambling is a serious problem.
These are the stages of a gambling addiction:
Stage 1
A gambling addiction usually begins when people experience a big win. They are thrilled. They believe their luck will continue and they gamble more. But the chances of winning again are very small.
Stage 2
When these gamblers continue betting and begin to lose, they will feel disappointed and miserable. However, they will also feel a strong need to keep gambling in order to win their money back. Most people can control this feeling and stop gambling, but addicts feel they must continue.
Stage 3
These gamblers will lose more and more money and will become very despondent. Yet they will spend even more time gambling to try and win some of their money back. Addicts frequently tell lies to get more money and they often miss work in order to gamble. Sometimes they lose their jobs, their family and friends.
Gambling is a worldwide problem. Unfortunately, few gamblers will admit they have got a problem and ask for help.
