In this forum and other forums where gambling is one of the topics of discussion, one of the recurrent topics is people who write about how their gambling addiction has ruined their lives. We usually encounter topics like "Gambling ruined my life," "I lost all my life savings to gambling," "I gambled away my entire salary," etc. Then they go on to tell a sad tale. It makes me wonder: why do gamblers tend to wait until they have suffered a catastrophic loss or a string of losses before quitting or seeking help?
Because they did not realize it earlier that gambling can lead them into something really bad or maybe because they are frustrated after so many tries but keep on losing then trying to recover it hardly that lead them into bigger lost. Imho, it is about our own mindset about how to deal with gambling and how to deal with all possible effects.
^ In addition to these various reasons.
The illusion of control: Many gamblers believe they can control the outcome of their bets or games of chance, even when the odds are against them.
Chasing losses: When gamblers suffer a loss, they may feel a sense of urgency to keep gambling in order to recoup their losses.
Denial: Gamblers may not want to admit to themselves or others that they have a problem with gambling.
Financial pressure: Gamblers may continue to gamble even when they know they have a problem because they are under financial pressure.
Problem gambling is a complex issue that can be influenced by a variety of factors. It is important for individuals who struggle with gambling to seek help as soon as possible, in order to minimize the negative consequences of their behavior in my own opinion.
These are all important aspects and there comes one thing to my mind that reinforces all of those problems you mentioned: a second addiction like alcohol. This is very simple and proven, especially when you visit casinos in the United States and Vegas. Most of the people who lose big are drunk as hell and even if you play a private round of poker with friends, you can probably tell that the style someone plays differs with the level of alcohol someone consumes. But when you are in real trouble and you lost money you couldn't afford to lose and you are drunk, that is the worst combination for someone who can't control himself even in a sober state very well.