Ludomania is a common type of gambling addiction. It is characterized by a pathological attraction to gambling and computer games. An addicted person is constantly involved in the gambling process, regardless of other factors. It is not influenced by life events. This disease is a serious problem and destroys many lives and families around the world. More information about this addiction can be found at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Problem_gambling.
If you notice that your close person is facing this problem and you don’t know how to help him or her, make sure you contact the appropriate specialists. This is a complex disease, so the person needs specialized treatment as soon as possible.
Modern diagnosis and the right approach will avoid negative consequences. In this way, the addict will be able to return to normal life, see the joy in simple things, and get rid of the complex addiction.
The Main Types of Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction can be different and affect people of all ages. It is not always related solely to online casinos, as there are different types of games that capture a person’s attention and cause serious cravings. Here are some common types of gambling entertainment that may cause addiction:
- Gambling games, and slots. This is one of the most common reasons for addiction, which is a classic. Gamblers are addicted to slots, roulette, poker, and other games in online or land-based casinos.
- Computer games. This type of addiction is most common among teenagers. Most of them choose to play on smartphones, computers, or consoles. Games are accompanied by the excitement in battles in various tournaments.
- Betting. Betting on sports is a big problem among adults. The main reason lies in the fact that it is possible to get a quick win from betting and this activity is accompanied by excitement.
- Investments. This type of gambling addiction is directly related to the possibility of making a great profit quickly. Gamblers prefer to play at Forex or the cryptocurrency market and participate in various pyramid schemes and other dubious projects. Each investment is perceived as a gain and this is a significant mistake.
These are common types of gambling addiction that are found all over the world. If you enjoy to play online slots for real money, do it responsibly. Max Bet, an author of the gambling review website SlotsUp, writes about slots and much more. Only responsible gambling prevents the development of addiction.
How Gambling Addiction Starts
Experts compare the gambling problem with drug addiction and alcoholism. This is not surprising because all of these addictions have similarities in the neuropsychological mechanism of formation. The development of gambling addiction has four main stages. They are described in detail in the table.
| Winning | After a person has experienced the taste of victories and was able to get easy money, he begins to have the desire to experience these emotions. Even minimal winnings can trigger a mechanism that will provoke the development of gambling addiction. This will be accompanied by a desire to get new winnings again and again |
| Loss | Loss of funds and depressed mood trigger the mechanism of immediate wagering. The gambling addict begins to spend a lot of money and has no control over the process |
| Recklessness | This is usually the critical stage at which a person begins to do reckless acts. People who come in his way are seen as enemies. He is willing to do anything in order to find the money for a new bet |
| Hopelessness | This is the final stage, which is characterized by a complex disorder. The person does not adapt to society, nothing can make him happy. The game also brings strong disappointment, yet it cannot be stopped. |
Gambling addiction is accompanied by a gradual manifestation of distinctive signs. Gambling addiction often causes other addictions. Mainly it is alcohol abuse. If a person chooses free online slot games and cannot control the process, it is necessary to contact a specialist.
Ludomania in Adults
Gambling addiction is less common in adults than in adolescents and children. This is due to the fact that adults have formed life principles and concepts of responsibility. However, despite this, adults are also prone to the development of addiction to gambling.
The main reason is hidden in the presence of stress and psychological disorders. You can often observe an increase in the number of addicted players during the economic crisis.
This is a mistake to choose gambling as a way out of a difficult financial situation.
Gambling Addiction in Children
Nowadays this is a contemporary disaster. The reason behind this is the uncontrolled access of children to various games and gambling platforms. Most games are available on smartphones and tablets, so children can play anywhere they want at different times.
If we consider WHO data, every sixth child in the world has a new addiction. Most of them are computer games. It is important to help your child in time.
Gambling Addiction: Consequences
Any type of gambling addiction is accompanied by adverse consequences and the severity depends on early and effective treatment. The consequences include
- family breakup – it is impossible to have a normal relationship with an addicted gambler;
- financial problems – the emergence of debts, and loans;
- unemployment;
The most serious consequence of gambling addiction is irreversible damage to the human mentality. About 40% of gambling addicts try to commit suicide.
The best way to prevent gambling addiction is preventive measures for adults and teenagers. Prevention involves reducing or eliminating games and other factors that may cause gambling addiction. Stressful situations should be handled properly and a healthy way out of trouble should be sought. More helpful tips can be found at https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gambling-disorder/what-is-gambling-disorder.
To prevent the development of addiction in childhood and adolescence, it is important to channel your child’s energy in the right direction. There are lots of useful sports hobbies that can motivate children. In this way, they will have a healthy hobby and be able to lead a healthy lifestyle.
