Addiction comes in many forms, and one of the newest forms is an addiction to online gambling, a variation of the "problem gambler" we're all so familiar with. It starts off simple; a person finds a website where they can play the lottery, or bingo, or poker, even slot machines. They start off by playing a few dollars a day, then a few more and a few more until they can't stop. For others it hits hard and fast; they never start with just a few dollars but quickly spiral out of control.

Some people laugh at the idea of online gambling, but it is a serious problem. There are companies that allow the user to keep a credit card on file, and play continually until the card is eventually rejected by the company. It gets to the point where the gambler loses track of time and how much money is spent. In a casino, there is always that few seconds while walking to the ATM that it starts to sink in just how much money they are spending, but that free time doesn't happen when playing online. An online gambler isn't aware of the money they are spending, and barely aware of the world around them.

There is a fine line between someone who gambles for fun or entertainment online and someone who is gambling addict. The addict doesn't know when to stop. And sadly enough, that line is so fine that some people are not even aware that they have crossed it. If you or someone you know, fulfils 5 or more of the following characteristics, they may be suffering from an online gambling problem.

(1) Often thinks or daydreams about gambling, including their next big win, or last win.

(2) The gambler has built up a resistence to the gambling, and needs to spend more and more time online to feel satisfied.

(3) The gambler plays to get away from their daily life and any perceived negative aspects of life.

(4) Feels nervous and unhappy when forced to stop gambling for an extended period of time.

(5) Continues to keep playing to win, trying to make up for their losses.

(6) The gambler lies about the amount of time they've played and the amount of money they've lost.

(7) Feels out of control and unable to stop gambling.

(8) The gambler is reduced to stealing to pay for their playing.

(9) Keeps playing even if it means losing their home or family.

(10) The gambler is forced to borrow money to keep playing.

While there is no way you can "fix" someone with an online gambling problem, there are a few things you can do. Consider cancelling the credit/bank cards, and blocking gambling sites from the computer. Then seek out a support group, and find more information for the gambling addict. Many people have suffered from this condition, but there is a chance of recovery, if they are willing to try.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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