Compulsive Gambler: How To Detect One?
A compulsive gambler is a person who is not able to resist urge
to gamble. The compulsiveness leads to severe personal and
social consequences. The desire to gamble becomes so difficult
to control that stress can only be calmed by gambling more.
1. Walks, Talks and Breathes Gambling.
The compulsive gambler preoccupies himself with gambling. He
tells story of previous experiences. The compulsive gambler
often discuss with anybody willing to listen, his new schemes or
next winning strategy.
2. More, more and more.
The compulsive gambler finds himself gambling more and more
money. In most cases he is not gambling for a bigger prize but
for an increased thrill or excitement. The time he spends
gambling usually lasts longer than planned.
3. Can't Stop, Won't Stop.
The compulsive has repeatedly been unable to curb his gambling.
Worse, he becomes irritable and restless when attempting to cut
back or stop altogether. Unfortunately, gambling is a way of
escaping or relieving his problems.
4. Lies, lies and more lies.
The compulsive gambler starts lying to family and friends in
order to hide his habit. But lies and brags about winnings. He
denies having a problem when confronted. Often becomes angry if
the issue is pursued. The lies start to become a way of life for
the compulsive gambler.
5. Show me the money.
He starts depending on others to help on dire financial
situation. He often borrows from family and friends to support
his increasingly worsening problem. Mortgages and loans are
refinanced. Life insurance is cashed in, as well as his 401k.
The gambler may then start committing fraud and theft to finance
gambling.
6. Self Destructing
Career is jeopardized or relationships with loved ones and
friends are eroding. There is a tremendous amount of shame and
remorse felt after gambling. Will consider or attempt suicide
due to extreme helplessness of situation.
7. Losing control.
A shift in personality often happens to the compulsive gambler.
He starts being manipulative, irritable, argumentative,
critical, and controlling. The compulsive gambler starts losing
interest on his regular activities and hobbies. Then makes poor
excuses or evades questions on his whereabouts. Often withdraws
from love ones and friends. Sees gambling as a way to cope and
deal with his problems.
8. No Sense of time.
The compulsive gambler begins gambling to celebrate and in
crisis. He starts spending his time gambling on holidays and
special events.
Prevention is difficult and will not always be likely.
Counseling may help people who are more susceptible to
compulsive gambling. People who know of relatives that are
compulsive gambler might be at risk and must be especially wary.