A lot of people enjoy a game of online Poker here and there… but how do you know when it has become problem gambling? Online poker addiction is a real issue ramping up amongst a younger generation, too.

Whilst gambling can be a fun and harmless pastime, for some, it can turn into a life-ruining addiction. So how is online poker addictive, what are the warning signs, and where can addicts go to get help? Let’s take a look.

HOW DOES ONLINE POKER BECOME ADDICTIVE?

Gambling, in general, stimulates the brain’s reward system in a similar way to drugs and alcohol, and therefore, it can lead to addiction almost as easily.

Addicts also tend to be attracted to the risk-taking aspect of gambling. Studies have shown that there is a chemical link between risk-taking behavior and addiction in the brain.

Online gambling and poker specifically are so addictive because it is a fast-paced, constant, and overall more immersive experience. You can also keep playing for as long as you want, as online casinos don’t have a closing time.

WHY IS ONLINE POKER WORSE THAN LIVE POKER?

Compared to land-based poker rooms, online poker sites tend to be worse for the following reasons.

Excitement

Online poker surpasses the thrill of live poker because it allows players to play multiple games at once. Live poker, in which you play a single hand, is also very slow in comparison. Whereas poker online games, where the cards are generated instantly and randomly, adding to the excitement.

Easy To Conceal

Additionally, when you play online instead of at a casino, there is no staff watching you. This is attractive to addicts, who typically want to hide their behavior from the outside world.

Accessibility

Online poker is available anywhere, at any time, because of the accessibility to the internet and mobile apps. And this is what makes it arguably more dangerous and addictive.