A compulsive gambler is a person who can't resist the urge to gamble. This compulsion can have severe personal and social consequences. The desire to gamble becomes so difficult to control that the only way to relieve stress is to gamble more.
A compulsive gambler's mind is preoccupied with gambling. They constantly tell stories about their past experiences and often discuss their new schemes or next winning strategy with anyone who will listen.
A compulsive gambler finds themselves wagering more and more money. In most cases, they aren't gambling for a bigger prize, but for an increased thrill or excitement. They also tend to spend more time gambling than they originally planned.
A compulsive gambler has repeatedly been unable to curb their gambling habit. They can become irritable and restless when they try to cut back or stop altogether. Unfortunately, for them, gambling is an escape from or a way to relieve their problems.
Compulsive gamblers start lying to their family and friends to hide their habit. They might brag about their winnings while denying they have a problem when confronted. This often leads to anger if the issue is pursued. These lies start to become a way of life.
The gambler begins to depend on others for help in dire financial situations. They often borrow from family and friends to support their worsening problem. It can escalate to refinancing mortgages and loans, or cashing in life insurance policies and 401ks. In some cases, the gambler may resort to committing fraud and theft to finance their habit.
A compulsive gambler's career may be jeopardized, and their relationships with loved ones and friends begin to erode. They feel a tremendous amount of shame and remorse after gambling. In extreme cases, they may even consider or attempt suicide due to the overwhelming helplessness of their situation.
A personality shift often happens to the compulsive gambler. They can become manipulative, irritable, argumentative, critical, and controlling. They lose interest in their regular activities and hobbies, make poor excuses, or evade questions about their whereabouts. They often withdraw from their loved ones and friends, seeing gambling as their only way to cope with and deal with their problems.
The compulsive gambler starts gambling to celebrate and in times of crisis. They begin to spend holidays and special events gambling.
Prevention is difficult and not always possible. Counseling may help people who are more susceptible to compulsive gambling. Those who know of relatives who are compulsive gamblers may be at a higher risk and should be especially wary.
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