Signs Of A Poker Addiction
In many ways, a poker addiction is like any form of gambling addiction. However, poker is a unique gambling game because players have more control over the outcome compared to house-banked games such as blackjack, slots or sports betting.
It’s true that poker involves some skill because players compete against each other and not directly against the casino or gambling site. Still, casinos and online gambling platforms take a sizable fee from each poker pot, known as the rake, making the host of the game by far the biggest long-term winner. No poker player can out earn the house.
Despite the skill component, very few poker players win money in the long run.
Poker is also a highly addictive form of gambling because of the exaggerated feeling of control over the outcome. This dynamic has led many poker players with above-average ability relative to their peers to develop poker gambling problems.
This article will discuss how poker is addicting for a great many players.
Preoccupation with Poker & Inability to Stop
Constantly thinking about playing poker, strategizing, or reliving past hands.
Fantasizing about becoming a so-called poker professional.
Frequent discussions about poker, even in unrelated conversations.
Making repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop playing poker.
Feeling restless or irritable when trying to reduce or stop playing.
Chasing Losses & Increasing Poker Stakes
Increasing the money or time spent on poker to achieve the same excitement level.
Increasing the number of tables to recoup losses faster (online poker).
Taking bigger risks or playing higher stakes games to feel the same thrill.
Trying to win back money that was lost by continuing to play, often leading to even greater losses and riskier play (i.e. bluffing, playing too many hands, etc.)
The belief that the next game or hand will make up for past losses.
Struggling to process the near-miss effect in poker hands.
Lying & Neglecting Responsibilities
Ignoring work, school, or family obligations to play poker.
Letting poker interfere with important life events or relationships.
Neglecting children or pets because of an obsession with poker
Lying to friends, family, or others about the extent of time and money spent on poker.
Hiding receipts, bank statements, or evidence of poker activity.
Poker Debt or Financial Problems
Borrowing money, selling possessions, or using credit cards to finance poker playing.
Building up gambling debt or draining savings accounts to continue playing.
Struggling to pay bills because of poker losses.
Stealing from family, friends, or businesses because of poker losses.
Emotional & Physical Distress from Poker
Feeling anxious, depressed, or guilty before, after, or during playing poker.
Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or aggression related to poker activities.
Withdrawing from social activities, friends, and family in favor of playing poker.
Spending more time alone, often because of poker.
Experiencing physical symptoms like stress, sleep disturbances, heart palpitations, nausea, or changes in appetite due to poker playing.
Neglecting physical health, hygiene, or exercise because of poker.
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