This is not a case of being addicted to gambling. There are people who are actually in control of their gambling habits or addiction. For instance, they do not gamble beyond their budget; they commit an hour or two to gambling per week or twice per week and strictly adhere to it, among all other things. We have heard and read stories here and out there about how gambling ruins lives, careers, relationships, throws people into debt and more. But my question is, could this be happening to everybody? Has your responsible gambling habit had any positive effects on your relationships with your spouse, kids, parents, and others? Has it improved your finances and helped you stay out of debt? Has it improved your mental health and well being in anyway? Has it been able to help you meet an urgent need? Let's discuss.
Of course not. Only about 5% of gamblers(it's 2% to 8%, depending on the area) are problem gamblers. Most people just gamble like you said, an hour or two per week, and some of them just buying lotteries once per month and that's their gambling.
Positive effects you ask? Lots of them. I wouldn't say I'm in big profit from my gambling for 10 years almost, but that's money-wise. I had dozens of hours of good time, that's for sure. If I lose $30 in a week, but then another week I win $30 with betting just 10 cents, I feel good, right? No money won, but I feel good.
I like how simple you think and that's actually true. Whenever we won something against the house it's almost like an achievement because not too many gamblers will experience the same.
For me, I have already withdrawn money out of a gambling site for like 5 times at $20 to $50 but it took me so long before I could make that. I dont bet much, I just like the fun of the game and I think thats where I feel really blessed when I saw my balance increasing slowly until I reach a good amount that is able to be withdrawn.
I think what I have learned the most is being patient about it. I dont trt to double my bet even if I feel a losing streak is happening. I dont try to be greedy and change my plan midway just to chase the losses. I stay with one amount and try to wait for another lucky roll.