How To Stop Gambling

What is Gambling?

At its core, gambling involves risking something of value, usually money, on an outcome that is uncertain. It’s not just about winning, but about the thrill, the risk, and the psychology of chance. Games like Blackjack and even the innocent-looking Crossy Road gambling game offer various ways to engage in this age-old practice.

The Rise of Online Gambling

With the digital age came the rise of online gambling, a growing trend where players can access their favourite games at the click of a button. From Stake, a popular betting platform, to classic games like Plinko, online gambling allows for convenience like never before.

For Australian players, the question often arises: Is online gambling legal in Australia? The answer is a bit complicated. Online gambling on sports betting and lotteries is legal, but online casino games are mostly restricted under the Interactive Gambling Act. That said, many Australian gamblers use a VPN to access international gambling sites that offer a wider range of games.

Gambling Addiction and the Dark Side

As exciting as gambling may seem, it carries significant risks, especially when it comes to gambling addiction. The rapid accessibility of online gambling platforms has only intensified these risks. People can easily fall into a cycle of betting more than they can afford to lose, leading to severe financial and emotional strain. The inclusion of gambling mechanics in apps and games, like the Crossy Road gambling game, blurs the line between casual gaming and real-world gambling.

For those struggling with gambling addiction, it’s important to seek help. In Australia, resources like the gambling helpline and organisations like Gambling Help are available to offer support and counselling to people in need.

Why does someone Gamble?

Gambling is fun, but getting addicted to it usually is tied to an underlying mental health condition.

For example, individuals with ADHD may have an irregular dopamine system, leading them to seek out ‘dopamine hits’ through gambling, substances, or other behaviours as a form of self-medication.

Similarly, those with untreated PTSD, particularly from traumatic experiences like childhood abuse, might turn to gambling or alcohol as a way to suppress unresolved emotions.

Depression and anxiety can also play a significant role, with gambling providing a temporary escape from feelings of hopelessness or fear.

There are many reasons why people develop gambling addictions. It’s important not only to seek professional help, like from a clinical psychologist, but to find someone who specialises in gambling addiction.

Our psychologist, Sharon, has a deep understanding of this area and a special interest in supporting individuals struggling with gambling. Her expertise allows her to better understand your challenges, helping you uncover the root causes of your addiction and address them, so you can reduce or even eliminate the urge to gamble.

How to Stop Gambling

If you or someone you know is battling gambling addiction, knowing how to stop gambling is crucial. There are several steps that can be taken:

• Self-exclusion programs: Online platforms like Stake allow users to self-exclude to help control gambling habits.
• Therapy: Therapy can take various forms. Direct approaches, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), can help reduce gambling behaviours, while other therapies aim to uncover and address the underlying root causes of the addiction.
• Support networks: Reaching out to support groups, friends, and family can help build a foundation for recovery.

Gambling Community Benefit Fund

Some might be surprised to learn that not all gambling proceeds go to waste. In certain jurisdictions, funds from gambling activities go towards community projects, known as the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. In Australia, this fund helps finance local community initiatives, ensuring that a portion of gambling profits returns to the public in a positive way.

Plinko Gambling and Anime

One of the more unique forms of online gambling that has caught attention is Plinko gambling, where players wager money on a ball dropping through a maze of pegs. While simple in nature, the unpredictability of the ball’s path makes it incredibly thrilling.

Interestingly, gambling has even found a place in pop culture through gambling anime—shows that focus on high-stakes games of chance. Series like “Kaiji” dive deep into the psychological tension of gambling, reflecting the risk, strategy, and desperation often associated with the practice.

Conclusion

While gambling can be an exciting hobby, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and maintain control. Whether you’re playing a casual game like Crossy Road, betting on Plinko, or indulging in online gambling, staying informed and seeking help when needed is crucial. For those curious about the legal landscape, remember to check local laws, such as is online gambling legal in Australia?, before diving into the world of online betting. And for those in need, never hesitate to reach out to resources like Gambling Help or the Gambling Helpline.

Gambling is not just about the wins and losses—it’s about the journey, strategy, and sometimes, the recovery.