When does Passion become Addiction?

[HighRollinAC]

Hey guys,
I'm just curious. I'm really passionate about poker. It's a great game to play, and even better to win. But, when does one's passion for something like poker, become addiction?

[Spence]

You are addicted when you are a slave to whatever you are passionate about. If you have to play even if you don't feel like it you are likely addicted.

Being addicted is more about it not being a choice you can make, and one thats already been made for you by your body and urges.

[Weever22]

ive been asking myself this same question... I THINK its when poker begins to control other desicions in your life.. whether it be social activities or detachment from friends and such... I'm not too sure though.

[swingdoc]

Lots of different signs you might be addicted:

1. Needing to play higher and higher limits to feel good about playing, despite a limited bankroll.
2. Psychological dependence - needing to play each day in order to feel happy.
3. Withdrawal symptoms - feeling jittery, nervous, irritable or simply not normal when you haven't played for a while.
4. Failed attempts to control your playing
5. Continuing to play despite obvious (to you) negative consequences of playing (losing money you need, skipping work, not honoring commitments to family, etc)

When I decided that I really wanted to become good at poker rather than just use it as a fun hobby, the first thing I did was register here. 2nd thing I did was browse through the GA website so that I know what sorts of things to look out for.

[gwhiz_612]

Almost anything that you immerse yourself into can become addicting especially if it is pleasurable.If you feel like you are addicted take some time off. I had to take about 2mos off of online play because I noticed myself not getting much else done around the house. I have a full time job away from the poker tables and trying to mix in 20+ hours a week playing was starting to affect my family life.

1. Needing to play higher and higher limits to feel good about playing, despite a limited bankroll.

OH SH IT

[Rollos]

Another sign is when you constantly think about poker, especially during social situations. For example, if you're out with friends and you keep thinking about your aces getting cracked for that 250bb pot or that great bluff you made, it's time to start slowing down.

[PoorTom]

this seems like a pretty good rule of thumb to me:

if it's enhancing your life, it's a passion
if it's hurting your life and you keep doing it anyway, it's an addiction

of course, with enhancing/hurting i'm talking not (just) about the financial side, but the social, psychological, broader quality of life wholistic view.

of course it's hard to know at the time about all this - we're pretty good at convincing ourselves of the rationality of all our decisions. but it's a useful process to try to step outside your head and be honest with yourself.

Just my two cents.

[PM001]

Post deleted by chesspain

[sonneti]

Die spammer.