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If you’ve been on tiktok or instagram within the past few months, you might’ve seen a video similar to these:
These videos portray gambling in a joking way, as a method that you could use to easily make money. This is false. You might say, “Those are just tiktok videos, they’re obviously jokes,” but I personally know friends who sports bet constantly, and they might hit a parlay once in a while, but nine times out of ten they lose money and this is not a healthy activity. When you first think of gambling, you might think of playing poker or a roulette table, but the truth is, in this day and age, there are many more forms of gambling than just that. Common with teens today is sports betting and wagers on activities. Gambling is becoming more and more common but should not be normalized.
Gambling addiction is a very serious issue and should be portrayed as such.
Signs of gambling addiction can include:
Feeling the need to lie about gambling. This includes telling others you don’t gamble when you do, or admitting to gambling but downplaying how much you do it.
Having trouble controlling your gambling. This can include feeling the need to always try to get your money back when you lose by gambling again. This can also include sayings like, “Can’t end on a loss” when you lose, or “Keep the streak going” when you win.
Restlessness or irritability when trying to control gambling. Many times one can recognize an addiction, but it may be too strong to easily overcome. This is unfortunate but normal, and there are ways to overcome this.
Gambling can also lead to stress and anxiety.
Ways to overcome addiction:
Counseling. Finding a counselor to help you is a very effective method to overcoming addiction.
Join a peer support group. You’re never alone! There are often many others going through the exact same thing as you, and a peer support group can help a lot.
Find alternative activities. Gambling might be a way for you to relieve stress or kill some time, but it is not a healthy method for either of those. There are healthier alternatives that you could give a try and enjoy more.
At the end of the day, the rush of gambling might sound fun, but think of what you’ll feel when you lose everything. Many people get hooked on the rush and keep chasing it, eventually losing everything they have. Be careful and make wise decisions.
Written by: Shengze
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