All About Gambling
Gamblers are not unique. Nearly everyone can be faced with some type of addiction and Gamblers Anonymous provides a safe, non-judgmental environment in which to seek assistance. The Gambling Addiction Information Program (GAIP) is a nonprofit organization that serves people suffering from gambling problems. Over half of the gamblers in the United States admit to having a problem and more than thirty percent of gamblers visit a psychologist for counseling.
Problem gambling is dangerous to both physical and mental health. Individuals who live with this addictive habit can experience: depression, anxiety, insomnia, stomach complications, migraine, diarrhea, and other uncomfortable feelings. As with all addictions, the emotional effects of gambling addiction can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despondency. Addicts who suffer from higher risk addictions will find that their high stakes gambling also increases the likelihood of experiencing traumatic events such as divorce, loss of a loved one, job loss, medical problems, and financial difficulties.
Some people start to gamble because they have a need for escapism or a release from stressors. Others begin to gamble because they feel an uncontrollable desire to do so. In both cases, the problem becomes more serious when the gambler does not know where to turn for help or support. GAIP has developed resources that provide resources and information to help people suffering from any type of gambling addiction and offers one-on-one consultations at no cost.
According to the United States National Institute of Mental Health, a lot of state governments and other jurisdictions around the country provide funds for those who are suffering from gambling addiction and provide state-funded hotline numbers as well as free programs for at-risk youth. Many state and county governments offer lottery bonuses as well as tax incentives to help residents beat their addiction to gambling. There is also a lot of support available for those who are willing to speak with professionals about their situation.
Gambling can be broken down into two main categories: regular betting on sports and betting on horse races, American football, or college sports games. Regular gamblers place a wager in an effort to win and will usually place a very small amount of money on each game they select. People who participate in lotteries will usually place a larger wager and will most likely select a much larger number of games to bet on. If you are considering joining a lottery, casino, or other type of gambling event, you should be aware that there are laws in place that regulate it and protect your right to participate.
Because there is such strong support for those who participate in lotteries and other forms of gambling, many states have created official gambling prevention programs. These programs are designed to educate the public about the dangers of gambling, and to monitor the activities of bookmakers within the state. Many cities, counties, and states offer public reporting of who is participating in illegal gambling activity by listing all of the city, county, or state license numbers for all bookmakers licensed to do business in that area. A quick Google search of a license number will provide all of the information needed to determine if someone is being ticketed for gaming fraud or not. The penalties associated with gambling fraud can be very serious and include heavy fines, jail time, and in some cases, even prison time.