NFL Sober Coach: Fantasy Football, An Increasing Addiction

Cali Estes
on September 10, 2015

The Fantasy Sports Trade Association reported that an estimated 30 million individuals ages 12 and older, have participated in playing fantasy football. Sports fans are increasingly becoming more and more addicted to playing fantasy football.

When considering the definition of addictions, thoughts that commonly run through someone’s mind might refer to drugs and alcohol, and not necessarily fantasy football addiction. But with the addiction to fantasy football on the rise, it has managed to make its mark as an unofficial and unexpected addiction to some. Whether it’s playing fantasy football just to win some money, for the feeling of authority, or just pure entertainment, there’s no question fantasy sports are slowly becoming an addicting sport.

It can be said that men everywhere have created their own self-addiction to fantasy sports. Whether it’s the fall season and football season is about to take off, or it is March and spring training for football is in session, the addiction never stops. It is a year-round leisure pursuit that has captivated the lives of sports fans. The phenomenon is a time consuming and tedious process that requires sports knowledge and sometimes a lucky charm. A typical fantasy football draft can take anywhere from one to five hours to complete. Individuals that are participating in the game, break down player stats, injury reports and opposing predictions when creating rosters. When dealing with addiction, denial is often the primary psychological indicator that someone is involved with a personal struggle—for example, asking someone who religiously takes part in fantasy leagues on a daily basis at the expense of other responsibilities when claiming it’s nothing important to them. A lot more women are starting to take notice when their husbands are starting to stay on the computer all the time. It might not be what you think; he could be part of the growing addiction of Fantasy Football.

A clinical psychologist warns that extreme football fanaticism may actually be an addiction that can damage life’s most significant relationships. Even in parts of the country where football madness is normal, the psychologist states that Fantasy Football fans need to become more alert to the danger of Fantasy Football turning into obsession. Over-indulging in sports viewing can negatively impact a person’s quality of life. The psychologist says it is not only about the number of hours you spend in front of the television or computer, but how that involvement might be taking you away from everyday, real-life commitments. Are you an addict? Answer the below questions to find out if you have a Fantasy Football addiction.

Do you have football on your mind even when you are involved in other activities?

Do you prioritize the game over significant events in your life such as birthdays, anniversaries and key social gatherings?

Do you feel depressed, angry or become violent if your favorite team loses?

If you have answered yes to more than one of these questions it is safe to say that you have an addiction to Fantasy Football. This is considered part of gambling and can be treated through us here at Top Rated Addiction Recovery and Sober Coaching Services or at 1-800-706-0318.

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