Online Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms Rise as E-Wallets Cut Access
With online gambling now blocked on e-wallet platforms, many individuals facing serious addiction must prepare for potential withdrawal symptoms. The sudden removal of online gambling from popular digital wallets like GCash and Maya has left affected users grappling with the abrupt change.
Last weekend, these e-wallet providers complied with an order from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to unlink their services from online gambling sites. This move aims to address the growing concerns about the harmful effects of online gambling on consumers.
Government Review Sparks E-Wallet Restrictions
The Philippines is currently reviewing its local online gambling industry. Lawmakers, regulators, and business leaders are actively debating whether to impose a full ban on online gambling. Meanwhile, the BSP issued Memorandum No. M-2025-029, highlighting serious issues linked to the practice.
Both GCash and Maya announced their adherence to the BSP’s directive, emphasizing their commitment to consumer protection amid ongoing scrutiny of the sector.
Understanding Online Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms
Community members and mental health experts warn that people addicted to online gambling may now experience withdrawal symptoms. Psychologist AJ Sunglao explained that withdrawal includes physical and psychological effects that occur when a person abruptly reduces or stops an addictive behavior.
“It happens because the brain and body have become dependent on the repeated stimulation or chemical effects, and once the source is removed, the system struggles to re-adjust,” he noted.
Common Signs to Watch For
While there are no documented cases of severe medical withdrawal from behavioral addictions like online gambling, certain warning signs should not be ignored. Sunglao identified symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, anxiety, low mood, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and intense cravings.
He cautioned that these symptoms may escalate into more severe mental health challenges if left unaddressed.
Effective Strategies to Manage Withdrawal
To ease withdrawal symptoms, immediate coping methods can help. Sunglao recommended replacing the gambling habit with healthier activities like deep breathing exercises, short walks, journaling, and physical workouts.
Additionally, avoiding triggers and seeking support from trusted friends or family members can provide crucial relief during this difficult period.
When to Seek Professional Help
For those experiencing intense or prolonged symptoms, structured interventions are essential. Counseling, therapy, support groups, and psychiatric consultations can offer the necessary guidance and treatment.
“Gradually, [one needs to have] healthy and sustainable lifestyle changes to progressively replace the addictive behavior and reduce the chance of relapse,” Sunglao emphasized.
As the online gambling landscape continues to shift, affected individuals must prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed.
For more news and updates on online gambling withdrawal symptoms, visit Filipinokami.com.
