Myths about gambling and the truth about addiction

Introduction

Excitement is perceived by many as an opportunity for easy money or interesting entertainment, but bright promises often hide a gradual loss of control. Debunking key myths helps maintain a clear view of risks and take the right protections.

Myth 1. "There is a working winning system"

Why it seems true: popular strategies (Martingale, Fibonacci system) promise to knock out a losing streak.

What's real: All gambling is based on random numbers with a built-in casino advantage (2-15% home advantage). Regardless of the algorithm, each new bet adds to the negative expectation.

Myth 2. "If you don't play for a long time, luck will "accumulate""

Why it seems true: Players believe a "long pause" renews a "happy cycle."

What's real: The results of each draw are independent. There is no "memory" at the roulette or slot, and the absence of a game does not change the chances of winning next time.

Myth 3. 'Winners are the ones who manage emotions'

Why it seems true: the stories of successful financiers suggest that controlling emotions is everything.

What's real: Emotional resilience is important, but it doesn't remove fundamental risk. Without strict limits, emotions are quickly replaced by a desire to "recoup," and this is a direct path to losses.

Myth 4. 'Excitement is the social norm and he's OK'

Why it seems true: Advertising and the publicity of sports betting inspire the legitimacy of the game.

What's real: Mass advertising increases engagement and decreases vigilance. Social consensus does not negate risks: 1 in 10 players experience problematic behavior, and 1% develop clinical dependence.

Myth 5. 'Easy money effortless'

Why it seems true: Calls to "bet from 1 AUD" lower the entry threshold and create the illusion of "losing nothing."

What's real: Even small but regular bets result in systemic losses. The amount of losses accumulates, and the nightly "1 AUD each" will sooner or later develop into serious debts.

Myth 6. "Control over the game - in the ability to stop in time"

Why it seems true: self-discipline seems to be a sufficient measure.

What's real: Best practices reinforce the need for technical barriers (BetStop, Gamban), not just "willpower." The inability to bypass the limits is the only reliable way to withstand the keen desire to play.

Myth 7. 'Excitement helps relieve stress'

Why it seems true: a short-term dopamine rise is perceived as a cure for anxiety.

What's real: The stress of losing, debt and conflict heightens anxiety and exacerbates depressive states. Excitement creates a vicious circle: stress → betting → losing → even more stress.

How not to succumb to myths: practical recommendations

1. Education and critical thinking

Learn the principles of negative expectation and the principles of random number generation (RNG).

Take BeGambleAware online courses or read your state's Gambler's Help materials.

2. Technical barriers

BetStop: National self-exclusion for 6-12 months or life.

Gamban/BetBlocker: site and application blockers.

DNS filters: OpenDNS FamilyShield for home network.

3. Financial control

Allocate "leisure budget" and do not exceed it.

Use a separate card or e-wallet with spending limits.

Keep a simple game diary: the sum of bets, losses, mood and triggers.

4. Emotional strategies

Master breathing exercises (4-7-8) and the technique of "pause 10 minutes."

Plan alternative activities: sports, hobbies, volunteering.

At the first sign of stress, call 1800 858 858 (Gambler's Help) or 13 11 14 (Lifeline).

5. Social support

Visit Gamblers Anonymous or regional peer-support groups.

Connect loved ones: agree on a "buddy system" for emergency assistance.

6. Professional assistance

Enroll with GP for Mental Health Care Plan clearance (up to 10 Medicare CBT sessions).

Consult an addiction specialist to assess the need for medication (naltrexone, SSRIs).

Conclusion

Myths about gambling create the illusion of control and "easy money," but they are based on cognitive distortions and advertising techniques of operators. Understanding the real mechanisms of dependence, strict financial and technical control, as well as timely appeal for support - the only way to preserve health, relationships and finances.