Internet Gambling

Internet Gambling is a serious problem. Online casinos have sprung up practically overnight into a multimillion-dollar business, attracting a large number of gamblers worldwide. Gambling has been around for decades, but now access and opportunity are even greater with the invention of Internet gambling, bringing with it a new form of addictive behavior.

24-7

Traditional gambling is glamorized on TV and in the media in a way that other addictions are not. Today, all anyone needs is a computer and the Internet to access the thousands of available online casinos. The 24-hour, seven-days a week availability of online casinos simulate the seductive and realistic experience of traditional casino luring millions of new users each year.

Teens are Most At-Risk

At an alarming rate, Internet gambling is a serious problem among teens. This accessibility also encourages a new breed of gambling addicts for teenagers and college students who can’t access real casinos. Young adults who seek admission to an online gaming site can freely enter, as no one is there to check for proof of age or an ID. This has already created a stir among college campuses who have discovered students using their Internet privileges to gamble and for parents concerned about their young children having instant access to virtual casinos.

What are the signs?

Internet gambling addicts show an increasing need to bet more money more frequently. They tend to minimize their losses and exaggerate their potential winnings. They get caught up in the excitement of the gambling experience and the anonymity and privacy of gambling from one’s own home makes Internet gambling more attractive as they easily hide their gambling habit.

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Where to find Help — call 716-375-2076 or Contact Us now

Dr. Kimberly Young has developed an evidenced-based counseling program to help you understand the causes of Internet gambling in your life. She uses specialized techniques in weekly sessions to teach you behavior management and financial management that help you in a holistic manner. To learn more, Internet Addiction: A Handbook and Guide for Evaluation and Treatment describes the risks of Internet gambling and outlines structured recovery strategies to stop online gambling for addicts and their families.