How to Overcome an Online Gambling Addiction

Online Gambling is a form of gambling that involves placing bets on games of chance via the internet. It is legal in some states of the United States, many provinces of Canada, and countries in Europe and Asia.

While most people who gamble do so for fun, there are some who develop a serious addiction to the activity. This addiction can lead to financial problems, relationship issues, and health problems. Fortunately, there are ways to help someone overcome their addiction to online gambling. The first step is to recognize the problem and seek treatment.

Addiction to online gambling is most common among adolescents, and some studies have found that 6% of European adolescents report having engaged in online gambling in the past year (Andrie et al., 2019; Brunelle et al., 2012; Canale et al., 2016; Floros et al., 2013; Gonzalez-Cabrera et al., 2020; Potenza et al., 2011; Wong & So, 2014). Other surveys have questioned whether loot boxes, which contain in-game items that can be traded or used to boost the odds of winning in multiplayer video games, constitute gambling (Kristiansen & Severin, 2020).

Some online gamblers may also experience emotional stress from losing money, while others struggle with social isolation as they spend more time at their computer. Some may even resort to illegal activities to fund their habit, such as theft or fraud, which can lead to serious legal consequences. Those who have trouble controlling their online gambling can also find themselves facing family and friends who are concerned about their behavior.