These 2 groups can help break ‘all-consuming’ gambling addiction

Addiction can strike at any age, as gambling and gaming addiction can affect those under 18 years old.

As the Barrie-Innisfil inter-group representative for Gamblers Anonymous, Calvin C. (InnisfilToday has chosen not to use his last name) is offering support to young gamblers and those struggling with gaming addiction in an online support group called Young Gamblers in Recovery. People who are 35 years and younger and interested in joining can navigate to this website and look under the “Find A Meeting” tab.

“One does not need to be 18 to join,” Calvin said.

He explained that gaming addiction can include games on the internet or any electronic device.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a person struggling with video game addiction — also called internet gaming disorder — has trouble controlling gaming habits, resulting in negative consequences in many aspects of your life, including self-care, relationships, school and work.

Many researchers consider gaming addiction akin to a gambling addiction, as the rush of winning fosters a behavioural addiction, which becomes one of the main reasons for playing.

“Regardless of this debate, any activity or habit that becomes all-consuming and negatively impacts your daily functioning can cause significant mental, social and physical health issues. It’s important to seek medical care if you think your video game habits are taking over your life,” the clinic’s website states.

Previously featured by InnisfilToday, Calvin C. also runs a Gam-Anon group to support family members and friends of people struggling with gambling or gaming addiction.

“Through Gam-Anon, we find our way back to a normal way of thinking and living, whether or not our loved ones continue to gamble,” Calvin explained. “We understand as perhaps few can. We are familiar with worry and sleepless nights and promises made only to be broken.”

If a gambling problem is affecting your life, you may find help at a Gam-Anon meeting, a list of which is available at gatoronto.ca, he said.