When a person gets addicted to gambling, they resort to lying as a way of protecting themselves. In fact, telling lies becomes second nature. There are typical lies that compulsive gamblers tell. If you have a family member you think might be an addict to this menace, you will find these useful.
Lie #1: Gambling is not a problem for me
When someone denies they have any problem with their gambling habit even when there is plenty of evidence otherwise, it is clear that they are already an addict or well on their way to full-blown gambling addiction.
Denial is a coping mechanism that a gambling addict readily uses to cover up their problem. This behavior is seen in other addictions also. The more they swear they don’t have a problem with – gambling or alcohol or drugs or other addictive behavior – the more likely it is that they do.
Lie #2: My gambling is under control
When someone says they have their gambling under control, they are lying not only to you but also to themselves.
If you are a spouse or family member who depends on the gambler to pay bills and take care of the family expenses, you may believe this lie for a while. But then these lies just aren’t believable anymore. And the evidence will mount to prove just how big a lie it is. This cycle of lies becomes all the more dangerous when the gambler has unrestricted access to their bank accounts, credit cards, lines of credit, and other sources of money.
Lie #3: I can stop anytime I want
When a close friend or family member confronts a compulsive gambler, they generally resort to this type of response. They are not willing to face the fact that there is a problem and so try to emphasize passionately that stopping is not a problem. Unfortunately, to ignore the craving by not admitting it only makes the problem worse because the compulsive gambler only wants the ‘high’ that comes from gambling.
Lie #4: My gambling is not hurting anyone
Most addicts think and even sincerely believe that their addiction is not hurting anyone. This is typical for not only gambling but also applies to other addictions such as alcohol and drugs. In fact, gambling addiction, like all addictions, is considered a family disease/disorder. When one individual in the family is addicted, it impacts all members of the family including children.
The type of hurt that excessive gambling behavior inflicts on the family depends on the length of time the person is involved in gambling, and if there may be other addictions. For example, many compulsive gamblers are also known to be addicted to alcohol, illegal drugs, or other harmful substances.
What is the solution to this spiraling problem of gambling addiction and lies? The good news is that gambling addiction is treatable. If the person realizes themselves or a family member is able to convince them, starting with programs such as 12-step meetings like Gamblers Anonymous is a good place to start the recovery process. Seeking and finding help as soon as possible is critical to stop further damage due to compulsive gambling behavior.