Online Casino Safety: How to Protect Yourself From Problem Gambling
Online casinos are quickly catching the interest of millions of players worldwide. Experts point to the unbelievable growth of the Internet gambling industry, which is making great strides. Whereas playing casino games was restricted to conventional brick-and-mortar establishments earlier, this gaming and entertainment option is now available on mobile phones and other gadgets. Gamblers can take their pick of a whole range of blackjack, roulette, and poker games by simply downloading the app and playing on the go or whenever they have some time off work. Or any of their daily activities.
Ease & Availability Have Prompted the Rise of Problem Gambling
As long as it is a fun and entertainment option, gambling is great. But, the exceptional popularity is also a warning of the dangers of problem gambling. This is a real condition that you should be aware of. There are several clinical terms describing the condition, like compulsive gambling, pathological gambling, and gambling disorder. Players can get addicted to casino and non-casino games, such as scratch cards and track racing. Experts suggest that the excitement and thrill of winning release chemicals like dopamine in the brain. This chemical makes you feel great, and gamblers chase that feeling of being high.
Problem Gambling Can Ruin Lives
The bottom line is that any kind of gambling is a problem if it starts to interfere with your daily life and the lives of those around you. Players should be wary of not just cleaning out their bank balances but also risking their mental health. Be aware that there’s a thin line between enjoying gambling for fun and turning it into an addiction. You should also know that the ease with which players can transfer funds from their bank accounts in and out of the casino account makes it harder to curb the habit.
You risk financial losses, debts, and bankruptcy. Aside from monetary losses, you’ll gamble away relationships, property, career, and stability. Once that starts, gambling addicts quickly go down the spiral where they battle feelings of shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety when they see the effects of their habits on loved ones.
Be Alert – Look Out for the Signs of Addiction
Whether it is yourself or a loved one who has recently downloaded a gambling app, look out for these signs. Addicts tend to spend more time playing games on their devices. You’ll notice a gradual withdrawal from normal day-to-day activities, including work responsibilities, social activities and interactions, personal hygiene, and meals.
Problem gambling also becomes evident when players start borrowing money to fuel their addiction. They may start using unscrupulous ways to raise money, like selling personal and family belongings or even doing illegal activities to earn money. When the gambler starts to lie about the extent of their gaming, you’ll know they are in serious trouble. If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to stop.
How to Deal with the Risk of Problem Gambling?
The best way to prepare for the risk of problem gambling is to lay down specific ground rules before signing up on the portal. For starters, commit only a specific time frame for playing. Schedule it into your day or week, and don’t cross the line. Set aside a particular amount of spare cash for playing, and whatever happens, don’t chase the wins or losses. If you’ve lost all the money in your account, terminate the session and return later.
Many online casinos allow you to set pre-determined restrictions on your account when signing up. Use this facility to restrict the account’s deposit amounts and playing hours. Reputable casinos also have preset blocks for you. Players who suspect can develop a gambling problem, request the casino to block them out for a fixed period so they are allowed to return only after this time. This facility helps keep a reign on your gambling addiction.
Don’t Hesitate to Look for Help
If you suspect a gambling problem with yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to seek help. Several online help groups and support networks are set up to assist gamblers trying to break addictions. You can also call hotlines and join clubs to help give up the habit. Of course, the best thing you can do is practice responsible gambling and not let it become a problem in the first place.
Problem gambling is a real thing. And the easy availability of online casino apps compounds the risks. The best you can do is be aware of the risks and prepare for them before you start gaming. Learn to recognize the signs and stay disciplined. Enjoy the game for the fun and thrills, and not treat it as a way to make money. Enjoy, but responsibly.
