Online Gambling has become a popular pastime that can be enjoyed from anywhere with an Internet connection. It has transformed the gambling industry, attracting new audiences and adding convenience to the games offered. However, the proliferation of gambling online can have serious consequences if not approached responsibly. These risks include financial losses from chasing losses and in-game or in-app purchases, as well as psychological and emotional impacts that can impact a person’s well-being.
A common problem associated with gambling online is compulsive behavior, which can lead to a variety of negative consequences. These can range from financial problems to feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety. Additionally, the highs and lows of winning and losing can cause a person to neglect other responsibilities in their lives or feel compelled to continue gambling, regardless of the consequences.
Psychologically, online gambling can trigger the release of dopamine, serotonin, and other “feel-good” neurotransmitters, which can lead to addiction, according to research by Jocelyn L. Topf and colleagues at Yale University School of Medicine. As a result, people engage in gambling online to experience these pleasurable emotions again and again.
In addition to monitoring account activity and using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, people who gamble online should consider a treatment plan that is customized to address their specific needs. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. With CBT, a person works with a therapist to identify and challenge faulty thoughts, such as thinking they are “due to win” after a long streak of losses, and learn tools to change their behaviors. During motivational interviewing, a person will work with a counselor to explore their ambivalence about changing and examine factors that may prevent them from engaging in responsible online gambling.