Gambling Disorder is a disorder that causes people to gamble uncontrollably. There are no diagnostic criteria as such, but it is generally agreed that individuals who gamble excessively and compulsively are displaying signs of gambling disorder.
The main distinguishing feature of gambling disorder is the amount of time spent gambling, which can be as little as a few hours per week or more than the majority of their waking hours. Individuals with this disorder are usually able to control their urge to gamble and may not appear to be addicted to gambling, despite their heavy involvement.
Here are signs that show you have a gambling disorder;
Urges to gamble
If you have a gambling disorder, you’ll find yourself unable to control your urge for gambling, even when you know that it isn’t right for you. You might find yourself thinking about playing slots or betting on sports or in casinos.
Overspending on gambling
Gambling disorder is a serious problem and it can lead to bankruptcy, financial ruin, or relationship breakdowns. Gambling addiction is a real disease that needs to be taken seriously. If you find yourself spending more money than you have on gambling, it may be time to seek professional help.
Missing important appointments or events because of gambling
If you can’t stop thinking about your next win or loss and you’re unable to control your thoughts, this is a sign that you have a gambling issue. If this is happening regularly, then it’s best to see a doctor or therapist who can help you get back on track with your life and spend less time gambling.
A change in character
If you have a gambling problem, chances are that you will have changed as a person in the last few years. This is because gambling is an addiction that takes over your thoughts and actions, making you feel like there is no other way out than continuing to gamble.
Withdrawal symptoms if you give up gambling
The most obvious sign of a gambling problem is that you get hooked on the thrill of gambling. If you start to gamble, and then your life gets better, you’ll likely continue to gamble despite the negative consequences. When you stop, however, withdrawal symptoms can occur.
Anhedonia
This is a feeling of intense depression and loss of pleasure in everyday life, It also causes people to have trouble concentrating and remembering things.
Cravings
You may feel an overwhelming urge to gamble when you try to stop playing your favorite game or when you don’t win your money back after losing it all at the casino or online. You might even start thinking about going back on the gambling floor just so you can feel something again like winning money or beating your friends in a game of poker or slots.
Anxiety
If you’re not winning, then this makes it hard for you to relax and enjoy other aspects of life like eating meals with friends or family members. If you can’t go out for drinks with friends or spend time with loved ones at home because all you can think about is getting back into the casino, then you have already developed a gambling disorder.
Key Takeaway
Gambling disorder is a mental health condition that causes symptoms such as gambling to interfere with your daily life negatively. The signs of gambling disorder can be subtle, so it’s important to talk with a professional about your situation if you think you may have the disorder.
