Gambling Addiction? What Are the Symptoms and How to Recognize It on Time

The Biggest Losers on a Global Scale

Another interesting perspective on gambling is identifying which countries have the largest losses per adult, which helps put the issue into context. Below is data on gambling losses worldwide in 2017.

Australia tops the list with $958 in gambling losses per adult. Hong Kong comes second with $768 per adult, about 20% less than Australia, while Singapore is close behind at $725. Finland ranks fourth with $515, followed by New Zealand at $454.

Japan is sixth with $447 in losses per adult, while Ireland is seventh at $433. Norway follows in eighth with $430, and the United States ranks ninth with $421. Canada rounds out the top ten at $382.

Panama ranks eleventh with $376 per adult, followed by the United Kingdom in twelfth at $346. Malta and Iceland hold thirteenth and fourteenth place with losses of $344 and $339 per adult, respectively.

Cognitive Distortions Associated with Gambling Disorder

Several underlying factors exacerbate gambling disorder. Many gamblers reassure themselves with thoughts like I can stop any time, I have control over the situation, my gambling is not a problem. These thoughts are examples of cognitive distortions.

A common distortion is the gambler’s fallacy, the mistaken belief that if an outcome occurs frequently it is less likely to occur again and vice versa. The fallacy has ensnared many gamblers, creating an almost manic obsession with proving it, which encourages repetitive behavior and deepens the disorder.

Research shows that people are more sensitive to losses than to gains. This loss aversion makes many individuals reject a 50/50 chance of winning or losing because potential losses feel more painful than equivalent gains feel rewarding.

The illusion of control is another prevalent distortion among problem gamblers. Here, an individual believes they can apply skill to games of pure chance, such as slot machines or lottery tickets.

The illusion is reinforced by actions such as choosing a lottery ticket, perceiving competition, or performing instrumental behaviors like spinning a roulette wheel. A recent study found that problem gamblers as a whole had far greater confidence in their ability to control outcomes of games of chance than non-gamblers.

Near-miss outcomes also play a role. A near miss occurs when an unsuccessful result comes close to a large jackpot. Unlike a full miss, this outcome can boost excitement and “hook” the player, motivating continued play when they might otherwise stop.

The Symptoms of Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction can cause significant, unnecessary suffering. To recognize and understand problem gambling, it is important to know its symptoms.

The first sign is a continual preoccupation with gambling. If you or someone you know is consistently focused on these activities, closer attention is warranted. You may also observe restlessness that leads to irritability, increasing the likelihood of emotional outbursts.

Heightened stress levels are another symptom, often relieved only by more gambling. These urges to gamble create internal conflict and stress, driving the person to gamble again in an attempt to cope.

When someone gives in to these urges, they may lie to friends and family to hide their lack of self-control. This deception can damage or at least strain close relationships, increasing stress and prompting further gambling. Putting one’s job at risk is another clear warning sign.

The most serious symptom appears when gambling leads to financial problems. Turning to fraud, theft, or excessive borrowing to fund gambling is the clearest indication of addiction.

Recognizing the Problem

Now that you know the symptoms, it is equally important to understand the key signs to look for when identifying gambling addiction in a friend or family member. Behavioral and emotional changes can be easy to spot once you know what to watch.

Stress and anxiety stemming from the gambler’s internal struggle often manifest as noticeable emotional changes. Elevated stress levels can lead to insomnia, leaving the person exhausted and drained. Physical signs may include paleness, severe headaches, and heart palpitations.

A gambler might hide their activities by lying to those close to them. This deception often triggers a change in attitude, increased stress, and emotional outbursts. The gambler may deflect attention from their own issues by focusing on others’ perceived flaws, sometimes inventing personal attacks that escalate into conflict.

Difficulty managing finances is another warning sign. If a gambler is struggling to stay afloat, asking for money, or even stealing, you will know something is wrong. Personal relationships often suffer as well, so do not overlook irritable behavior that threatens to cause lasting damage.