Know Your Limit, Play Within It

Recently there have been a number of TV commercials that address gambling as an addiction. Until their presence became strangely prominent in my TV viewing, I had never really given much thought to the dangers of gambling.

Gambling can be extremely seductive, but like all other vices, it should only be undertaken in moderation. The OLG Charity Casino in Brantford is practically located on campus. Its close proximity to the student body would seem to insinuate that students are headed for the slots to unwind and possibly win their tuition, but this does not seem to be the case.

Rather, trips to the local casino seem to be reserved mostly for the exceptional buffet table then the craps. The casino floor is largely filled by elder game enthusiasts, and can serve as an excellent cautionary tale for anyone considering going to get that next bucket of nickles.

The new gambling addicts spend their time primarily online. Like all other burgeoning tech industries, online poker has quickly become a multi-million dollar per year industry, boasting players from all corners of the world. It has also borne the brunt of the blame for the ever increasing number of compulsive gamblers in Canada.

Being a student can be an extremely difficult balancing act financially. For some, gambling may seem like a viable option for getting ahead. The following are a list of symptoms for compulsive gamblers (gambling addicts):

• feeling the need to be secretive about your gambling
  
• having trouble controlling your gambling
  
• gambling even though you don't have any money
  
• family and friends become worried
  

Of course, problem gambling is not just a threat to students. Anyone can be sucked in by the rush of winning or the hope of winning it all back. But, at this financially fragile time in your life, a gambling problem will only exasperate any financial strain you might be experiencing.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of compulsive gambling you should contact the schools therapist. Offered by Student Services and located in the Student Center, the school therapist can help you to organize and address your problems before you run out of solutions. If you would like to know more about compulsive gambling, visit http://www.helpguide.org/mental/gambling_addiction.htm or consult a physician. As the OLG says, know your limit, play within it.