As traditional gambling has moved online, gambling has become more accessible, and the risk of addiction has increased, particularly as internet use has become widespread.
What is online gambling addiction?
Online gambling addiction is a condition in which people develop an uncontrollable interest in online gambling games and cannot stop themselves from playing.
Who turns to online gambling?
Online gambling addiction is particularly common among adolescents and young adults. This group, which has greater exposure to technology, can easily access gambling sites and develop an addiction. People who struggle to cope with stress, are socially isolated or experience mental health problems such as depression are also at risk. People experiencing financial difficulties may be inclined to turn to these platforms in the hope of making easy money.
The appeal of online gambling
Online gambling platforms attract users with appealing graphics, instant rewards and constantly updated content. These platforms are designed to be easily accessible, and their 24-hour availability makes them a constant temptation. Offers such as “free games” or “first try free” also make it easier for people to enter this world. The immediate feedback these games provide activates the brain’s reward system, leading people to develop an addiction.
Common characteristics of people with online gambling addiction
People who develop an addiction often display personality traits such as a tendency to take risks, impulsivity, poor self-control and difficulty coping with stress. These personality traits can lead people to seek short-term pleasure and disregard long-term consequences. A person’s past trauma, family relationships or social environment can also trigger gambling addiction. Emotional problems such as low self-confidence and feelings of worthlessness can lead people to try to fill this void by gambling.
Why gambling?
The brain’s reward system lies at the heart of online gambling addiction. Every small win encourages the person to keep gambling. As the brain craves these rewards again, even losses can drive the person to gamble more. The thought “I could win the next hand” compels the person to spend more time at the gambling table. At the same time, the anonymity of online gambling and the inability to directly observe a physical loss (for example, losing money) can lead the person to continue this habit. Educating people and raising their awareness are important for prevention. Educational programmes, particularly those aimed at young people, should explain the potential harms of gambling and offer healthy coping strategies. Families can also play a preventive role by communicating openly with their children about this issue and monitoring their internet use.
Overcoming online gambling addiction
If a person has already developed an addiction, seeking professional help is essential. Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, can help people control their urges to gamble. Strengthening people’s social support networks and encouraging alternative interests can also be effective in overcoming online gambling addiction.
It should be remembered that online gambling addiction is a serious problem that needs to be addressed at both an individual and a societal level. By taking informed steps, it is possible to protect individuals and families from this danger.
Clinical Psychologist Solin Çekin
