Gambling addiction is difficult to overcome because it involves complex changes in the brain. Gambling can trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical that provides a sense of pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can become dependent on this dopamine release, making it increasingly difficult to achieve the same feeling without gambling.
Those who don't understand why it's so difficult often don't see the bigger picture of gambling addiction. And many people are quick to compare the problem with alcoholism and the use of narcotic drugs, where in these cases something is added to the body. Even if a gambling addict doesn't add anything to their body, the feeling of intoxication is still strong.
Gambling addiction is a complex interaction between psychological, social and neurological factors. As opposed to drug addiction, where the physical addiction pattern is more clearly linked to the body's biochemistry.
What underpins gaming addiction?
Mastery and progression
Computer games are designed to provide small rewards frequently, whether it's level upgrades, new skills or in-game prizes. This creates a sense of mastery and progression that keeps the player hooked.
Digital community
Many online games are linked to a social environment where the player makes friends, joins teams and participates in competitions. The player may have a fear of losing contact with this community, which can make it difficult to quit.
A break from reality
Computer games provide a sense of being in another world, which can provide a much-needed break from real-life problems such as stress, anxiety or boredom.
Losing the concept of time
While gaming, you can completely lose track of time, hours can quickly feel like minutes. This can lead to the game being prioritized over other important parts of life, such as work, school or social relationships.
Fear of missing out
Games with daily quests or exclusive events can create a fear of missing out, which can push the player to keep playing to stay updated.
What underpins gambling addiction?
Optimism
Many gambling addicts live with a constant belief that a big win is just around the corner, even when they lose large sums of money. This optimism drives them to keep gambling.
Winning back
After a loss, many people feel an urge to "win back" what they've lost, which leads them to gamble more and lose even more. This becomes a vicious circle that reinforces the addiction.
The "next time" -effect
Gambling provides a quick and intense feeling of excitement and reward, especially with small wins. This unpredictability means that many people experience the "next time" -effect.
Shame
Gambling often leads to financial problems, which in turn can result in shame and secrecy. The sense of shame often makes it difficult to seek help, and many people continue to gamble in the hope of solving their problems themselves.
Adrenaline rush
When large sums of money are gambled, it provides a huge adrenaline rush. This feeling can become addictive in itself, and many people gamble to experience the exhilaration of the risk, regardless of whether they win or lose.
Do you need help?
Gambling addiction can be challenging to overcome alone and for many it can be good to have someone to talk to.
