Is It a High Risk Type of Addiction?
Gambling is the act of wagering on an activity with an uncertain outcome with an intention of winning some other thing of value also with the same uncertainty. This act may involve many different forms such as horse racing, baseball betting, or even online casino gambling. Gambling therefore requires three important components to exist: risk, consideration, and a prize to win. It should be noted that in this article, when referring to a prize to win, the writer does not intend monetary compensation but only a kind of morale boost for the winner.
In any gambling activity, one or more persons wagers a fixed amount of money. When wagers are placed, they are placed either in a single or group of bets. Bets are made based on information provided by the player. Bets are also called ‘picks’ because at the end of the designated time, the person who has the most number of correct picks wins the game or activity. Some gambling games may call for a tie-breaker, where the player with the most correct picks is given a draw.
The United States has had its share of both federal and local laws regarding gambling. Gambling has been made illegal in some states including: Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maryland, Delaware, Iowa, New Hampshire, Maine, Oregon, Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Kansas, Nebraska, Kansas, Virginia, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, and Washington. In some states gambling is allowed although regulated somewhat differently. For example: New Jersey allows regulated gambling but imposes a license system to ensure compliance and maintains state control over advertising and distribution of gambling material. Oregon allows gambling but limits its participation to out-of-state sales and has no tax on gambling income.
Not all states criminalize gambling; however, many people are still charged with state-related crimes such as drug possession, underage drinking, public intoxication, gambling, and more. Gambling addiction is still illegal in many states, including: Illinois, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Arizona, Iowa, Illinois, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Virginia, New Mexico, California, Florida, Maryland, and Massachusetts. Those that do allow gambling have created strict regulations on how and where gambling is done, the types of gambling that can take place, and the amounts that can be spent. The result is that many people are unaware that gambling addiction exists and continue to be ill-equipped to help themselves when it does.
If you are struggling with any type of addiction, whether it be a substance abuse or gambling addiction, the key to recovery is in a combination of therapy, outside help, and action. Many rehab centers and support groups offer step-by-step programs for those who wish to overcome a gambling addiction and alcohol addiction. They understand that the road through recovery is a long one, filled with pitfalls and setbacks. A strong support system is necessary to ensure that the gambler understands the pitfalls and how to overcome them and how to remain committed to a sober life in order to succeed. It is also important that family members, friends, and the addict himself/herself stay committed to the process so that the desired change can be achieved.
People who suffer from gambling addictions can benefit from undergoing treatment at one of the many addiction treatment facilities across the country. Treatment centers offer the necessary resources for people to overcome addiction, learn new coping skills, develop a positive lifestyle, and prepare for life after addiction. For most individuals, the biggest obstacle to recovery from any addiction is resistance. However, if you are willing to make a complete and comprehensive plan for recovery, then your odds for living a productive life even after leaving the addiction treatment facility will be much greater. Just keep in mind that when it comes to higher risk addictions, there is help out there and it is available if you are willing to ask for it.