Gambling has become more widespread and accessible than ever. In fact, four out of five Americans have gambled at some point in their lives. Today, every state has legalized gambling, and you can even gamble from home with a computer or a cell phone. However, around two million people are addicted to gambling in the U.S., and up to 20 million of these people have a gambling habit that interferes with their work or personal life.
Problem gamblers may blame others
Problem gamblers often rationalize their behavior by blaming others. This tactic enables them to continue their gambling habits, while allowing them to continue to deny the need for money. Fortunately, there are ways to recognize problem gamblers and intervene to prevent this behavior from becoming a public health issue.
A problem gambler’s gambling can interfere with their family, work, and other responsibilities. It can be very destructive to relationships and put others in a dangerous position. The gambler’s behavior can also lead to lost employment responsibilities and decreased productivity.
They may feel desperate for money
When a gambler loses money, they feel desperate to win it back. Often, they resort to dishonesty or lying to gain more money. They may also face relationship problems as a result. Ultimately, they feel hopeless about stopping and may develop a substance use disorder, a gambling addiction, or extreme depression and anxiety.
In order to compensate for their gambling losses, gamblers may take out loans or sell things to raise money to fund their addiction. It may even lead them to engage in criminal behavior and suicidal thoughts.
They may blame others
Sometimes, gambling can become a major problem in a person’s life. They may not even realize that they have a problem until something drastic happens. They may go through cycles of awareness and denial, and may blame others for their gambling. However, the best way to help a person with gambling problems is to talk to them about their problem. During this process, you need to keep calm and remain supportive. You should avoid using critical language and avoid saying anything that may cause the person to become more defensive.
When talking to a problem gambler, try to keep your emotions in check. You don’t want to make them feel like they are the cause of their problems, so be patient and try not to interrupt them. You also don’t want to give them an excuse to continue to gamble.
They may blame themselves for their problems
Gamblers who are addicted to gambling may have a problem with self-esteem and blame themselves for their actions. As a result, their self-esteem may plummet, causing them to become more depressed and even consider suicide. In addition, gambling can cause severe financial, legal, and emotional problems. Problem gamblers may even suffer from depression, anxiety, and even bipolar disorder.
If a loved one is struggling with gambling, it’s important to talk with them and listen to what they have to say. Avoid interrupting, making excuses, or blaming yourself for their problems. Instead, try to build a relationship and work out a plan of action together. If you can’t do this, suggest they seek professional help.
They may blame others for their problems
Problem gamblers often attempt to rationalize their behavior, blaming others for their problems and avoiding responsibility. This can worsen the situation and isolate the gambler further from loved ones. Problem gamblers can also blame their partners for their problems, causing relationship problems. These problems are often the result of lying and lack of trust.
If a gambler has a gambling problem, the first step to help them is to get support from loved ones and friends. It’s not possible to force a gambler to stop, but you can tell them how the behavior affects you and others. You can help them by expressing your feelings openly and explaining the seriousness of the problem. This can be a difficult and confusing time for the gambler.