The Internet has created a tremendous problem for anyone with a potential gambling problem. There are seemingly endless easily accessible online gambling sites and activities. Easy access to gambling is a potential disaster for a person with a compulsive gambling disorder or an inclination to having a problem with gambling. With an abundance of online casinos and betting sites, anyone with a gambling problem and an Internet connection is faced with temptation twenty-four hours a day.

Why is gambling a problem – why can’t they just stop?

A compulsive gambler often wants to stop. After all, he is losing his money, his friends, ruining his family . . . But he can not stop.  According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) – the American handbook for mental health professionals – Compulsive Gambling is a mental disorder that requires treatment.

How do you know if someone has a gambling problem?

Problem gambling is characterized by a difficulty to limit money and/or time spent on gambling activity which leads to harmful effects on the gambler himself as well as to others. Compulsive gambling is now defined as persistent and recurrent maladaptive gambling behavior meeting at least five of the following criteria:

1. Preoccupation. He/She has frequent thoughts about gambling experiences, whether past, future, or fantasy.

2. Tolerance. He/She requires larger or more frequent wagers to experience the same \”rush\”.

3. Withdrawal. Restlessness or irritability associated with attempts to cease or reduce gambling.

4. Escape. Gambles to improve mood or escape problems.

5. Chasing. He/She tries to win back gambling losses by gambling.

6. Lying. Lies to hide his or her gambling habit.

7. Loss of control. He/She has unsuccessfully attempted to reduce gambling.

8. Illegal acts. He/She has broken the law in order to obtain gambling money or recover gambling losses.

9. Risked significant relationship. Gambles despite risking or losing a relationship, job, or other significant opportunity.

10. Bailout. He/She turns to family, friends, or another third party for financial assistance as a result of gambling.

How Can You Help Someone with a Gambling Problem?

If the problem is that they are gambling online, you can do a lot to help them. First of all, get rid of the temptation. That does not have to mean getting rid of the family computer or cancelling the Internet connection.

If your loved one admits to a problem and wants your help to overcome the problem, you can agree together to start by eliminating the easy access they have to gambling online. Simply by installing an effective web filter, you can easily block out gambling and betting websites from your PC, virtually eliminating the problem. A web filter, such as Optenet PC, is a software solution, that you install and manage on your computer. It can be a fast and easy way to curb a problem that is just beginning or helping a serious compulsive gambler eliminate the immediate access to online casinos.