Admitting to gambling addiction can be painful. However, many people struggle with this addiction and overcome it. Problem gamblers often blame other people for their problems and don’t seek help. They also often defy the authorities and lie to themselves about their problem. Thankfully, there are many ways to get help and overcome your addiction.
Problem gamblers blame others
Problem gamblers have a tendency to blame others for their problems, especially their partners. Often, they blame their partners for their money problems, even though their gambling behavior is the cause of the problem. This approach can lead to relationship breakdowns, but it can also result in a cycle of lies and lack of trust.
They don’t seek help
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has floated the idea of a single, convenient help line. However, state councils argue that autonomy and local knowledge are important. Additionally, conversations with help line operators can be intimate and intimidating for problem gamblers.
They lie to themselves about their problems
People who lie to themselves about their problem with gambling are enabling compulsive gamblers to continue gambling and to further their problem. This makes the problem more intense and magnifies it. If a person tells a loved one that they are in control of their purse strings, they are lying about their problems with gambling. In fact, if they only gamble on the Lotto, they would never make that claim.