Are you addicted to gambling?

A couple of years ago I made the transition from part-time gambler to full-time gambler. For some folks this way of life is okay. But for me, it was a mistake. You see, the thing is that I am a really skilled poker player. I’ve won lots of money in high stakes Hold’em games and I’ve beat out competition that could be described as fearsome. Those were the days. But all was not well with my poker skills all the time. As you are no doubt aware, poker is a game of skill, luck and strategy and to this end it’s not only your skillful play that makes you rich, it’s the luck of the draw.

What are the signs to look out for with gambling addiction?

Foremost among the gambling addiction tells, is the need to be gambling over and above all else. This usually becomes apparent when you’re prepared to risk more and more to simply spend time at the casinos. If you’re finding that your work performance is suffering or that your personal relationships are taking strain – then you should seek help. Remember folks, it’s not only about money problems, it’s about fixation, obsession and compulsion. Of course money is a big part of gambling because problem gambling is more about money and its rapid depletion than anything else.

So how do you know if you’re gambling too much or if you’re okay? It’s really simple: if you cannot afford to lose what you’re seemingly prepared to wager, then don’t gamble. If you’re using your rent money to play with, then don’t do it. If you’re already in over your head and you’re trying to recover your losses, then step away.

The golden rules are the following:

• Only wager what you’re prepared to lose
• Don’t tempt yourself by bringing large credit lines into a casino
• Don’t play casino games under the influence of drugs, alcohol or stimulants
• Don’t be lured in by big jackpots if you don’t know how to play the games
• Don’t be foolish and sacrifice your family, friends and job for any game of chance
• Don’t play until the money runs out – set limits and stick to them

Sure you can hit it big every once in a while, but when your gambling compulsions become so severe and so critical, do you want to risk your last assets on a game of chance? My advice is this – check yourself before you wreck yourself.