Chasing Victory
The Brain’s Proclivity for Compulsion

by Jayden Pierce

Define addiction. Although this noun has a very streamlined characterization, an individual can become enslaved to an infinite range of practiced behavior, no matter what it is. Addiction is a disease easy to find but nearly impossible to cure through outside influence. Humans are creatures of habit, and even if a habit has the potential to kill, some of us are all-too willing to go along for the ride.

We see the disease of addiction eat away at our loved ones and, sometimes, even ourselves. We feel powerless to stop its destructive nature, though we try intently. The only person capable of curing addiction is the carrier. It’s a lonely, loathsome ailment only cured in full by its maker. Addiction is a true paradox, an illness marked superficially yet created and healed internally.

It is possible to become addicted to nearly anything. Drugs, food and sex all have their many dependant fools suffering, and even something as harmless as a game of roulette can create a fiend.

Gambling addiction is very common around the globe. This specific disorder is particularly dangerous due to its progressive nature. Once a losing streak sets in, the snowball effect takes over and addicts spiral out of control.

Gambling addictions ruin lives. They can both cause or be triggered by depression. The disease can lead to panic disorders and other debilitating effects. The afflicted person’s social status, relationships, jobs, etc, fall apart with brilliant ease. Meanwhile, the gambler, suffering tremendously from this pathological addiction, proceeds to gamble. Throwing the proverbial fuel on the fire is just another day at the office for victims of this disease.

Contrary to popular belief, gambling addiction isn’t reserved to land-based or even online casinos. Scratch tickets, sports pools (like fantasy sports, for example), and even bingo can create addiction. The addictive personality is always at risk.

However, the deficiencies of the few need not deter the many. The truth is that only a small percentage of gamblers fall victim to addiction. By and large, gambling is an activity enjoyed like most fatty foods: in moderation. The story of gambling addiction doesn’t put focus on childproofing the world by limiting the game, but on teaching awareness and preaching self-control.

Countries in Australia, Europe, and states in the USA have focused their efforts to teach responsible gambling and counsel those succumbing to addiction. Most of the focus is on preemptive help, however, and the results have been good.

Scientists and researchers understand a lot more about the human brain and its inclination for habit, but they’re still far removed from a cure. Until then, people have to exercise the personal responsibility necessary to avoid addiction.

With a hefty sense of self awareness, there’s absolutely no reason a person can’t have fun gambling without fear of falling prey to addiction. The human mind creates addiction and, therefore, the human mind can prevent it.

Jayden may be contacted on: jayden.pierce@casinotop10.net