Gambling addiction is a serious mental disease which affects millions of people. Many people find it hard to believe that it is possible to get addicted gambling, but it is a reality. Like many other addictions it can be difficult to get rid off, and will take hard work or even therapy to break it off and lead a normal life. However, the good news is that it is possible to rid of this addiction and go on leading a normal life. The first step towards breaking gambling addiction is to find out what type of gambling you are addicted to, and what type of gambler you are. Gambling can involve many different types of activities. It could be as simple as purchasing large amounts of lottery tickets, or it could be playing a game such as poker for money.

There are two different types of gamblers. In short, they are called escape gamblers and power gamblers. Power gamblers tend to be domineering and controlling individuals. They also tend to be men, although there are a small percentage of female action gamblers. Interestingly, they will generally see themselves as friendly, outgoing and charming individuals, but in reality they suffer from low self esteem. Most action gamblers started gambling at a young age, and as they grew older they become compulsive gamblers.

Escape gamblers generally play on the principle of luck, as opposed to action gamblers who play games which require skill. Therefore, escape gamblers get short moments of euphoria when they win something, but it is not long lasting. So they keep going back for more. The bottom line is that gambling is identified as a psychological disorder and it will require professional help. However, there are those who read self help books and succeed in quitting, the same way in which smokers and alcoholics quit their addiction.