Gambling may be an issue if you have difficulty cutting back or stopping.
When costs exceed income and begin to harm your well-being (physical or mental), productivity (in school or at work), security (in terms of money), and social ties (via isolation), then you have a gambling problem.
Problem gamblers often neglect their families, careers, and academic obligations while accumulating big gambling debts and loan balances. Some problem gamblers deny they have a problem, chase their losses regardless of the cost to themselves, and prioritize gambling over all other aspects of their lives.
The first and most crucial step toward overcoming an addiction is admitting that you have a problem. It takes a lot of guts to accept that, especially if your savings are gone, and your social circle is dwindling.
Don't lose hope, and don't try to deal with this on your own. Many people have been in your shoes previously and effectively overcome their addiction and continue with their lives. So can you.
Do you find that gambling helps you kill time when you're alone and bored? Is it after an argument with your significant other or a particularly stressful day at the office? To gamble responsibly, you should do so just for entertainment and not as a means of escaping from anything.
Instead of turning to wagering to deal with your feelings or relieve boredom, it would be wiser and more helpful to engage in physical activity, hang out with people who don't gamble, explore new interests, and practice relaxing techniques.
Talk to your loved ones about it if you need assistance getting over your gambling habit. You don't have to resort to casinos or the internet if you're on your own and searching for new pals. Do something social, whether reaching out to coworkers, attending a sporting event or reading club, enrolling in a course, or volunteering. If possible, it's preferable to consult a professional.
There are alternative options for gatherings like this. Gamblers Anonymous, for one, employs a 12-step program to aid in recovery from compulsive gambling. Finding a "sponsor" or a former gambler who is now sober and can offer guidance and support is a crucial aspect of the program.