Even though poker and sports betting are two quite different forms of betting, they attract many of the same people. Individuals who love the rush of action, who love feeling they have some control, even if small, over their fate.

Someone who can calculate poker odds are often skilled in finding good sport bets. Unfortunately, some of us are also people who may fall victim to a gambling addiction.

How to know if your poker or sports betting is an addiction

Some people take the approach that a gambling problem is only a "problem" if you are losing. While losing certainly makes things worse, it is not the only ingredient for a gambling addiction.

If your gambling makes you lie or cheat, contributes to poor performance at your job, or results in you neglecting your family, you may have a gambling problem.

No matter if it's texas holdem online or sports betting. Even if you are outplaying all your opponents at the poker table or picking nothing but winners against the Vegas spread.

When is poker or sports betting not an addiction?

There are certainly thousands of people who enjoy both poker and sports betting without it being a problem. When handled well, these give a lot of pleasure and excitement to their practisers.

If you have a bankroll separate from your finances that you can afford to lose, and if you play with it exclusively, the financial side should not be a problem.

If you play recreationally on your own time, this is not a problem, even if you happen to lose some of your bankroll.

If poker or sports betting is your job and you can point to a regular positive expectation over time which supports you and your family, you probably do not have a problem. Even if the activity takes up a great deal of your time and you're playing almost every day on Full Tilt Poker.

Addiction is not the same as spending a lot of time with something. Working eight hours every day certainly doesn't mean you're addicted to work. You could quit today if you didn't need the money, right?

What to do if you think you might have a poker or sports betting addiction

You can call 1-800-GAMBLER for assistance with a potential gambling problem. You should also talk to your friends and loved ones about your concerns.

Addiction is a problem that needs treatment, not something to be ashamed of. If you think you need help, don't be afraid to ask for it. Put in a bet for a better life.