Online Gambling involves placing bets or playing games for money using a computer, tablet, smartphone or mobile device connected to the internet. Wins and losses are logged in your account’s bankroll, which is an amount of cash that you can deposit or withdraw at any time. Online gambling can be addictive and many websites offer self-exclusion options, which allow you to block access to their site for a set period of time.
Gambling addiction is a mental health issue, and can be treated through professional help. Therapists and support groups specialize in treating online gambling addiction, and can provide guidance, coping strategies, and emotional support. They can also identify underlying issues, such as anxiety or boredom, that may be driving your urges to gamble.
Like other forms of addiction, gambling disorder can lead to disrupted family and work relationships, financial difficulties and feelings of withdrawal when trying to cut back on gambling. People with a gambling problem may also develop unhealthy coping habits, such as using drugs or alcohol to ease their feelings of stress.
Young people can be introduced to gambling behaviours through features in online games such as loot boxes and skin betting, and it is important that adults understand how to spot the warning signs so they can take action if they think a child or young person is developing a problem. To help, Victim Support has produced a short video that highlights the risks of online gambling and provides advice for parents and carers.
