“Withdrawal” Symptoms to Watch Out for as E-wallets Unlink Online Gambling Platforms

E-wallets such as GCash and Maya have removed links to online gambling platforms, complying with the order issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Both GCash and Maya stated that they will adhere to the BSP’s Memorandum No. M-2025-029, which pointed out serious concerns about the effects online gambling has on consumers.

As a result, individuals who fell into a serious addiction are now expected to exhibit symptoms related to the cessation or reduction of their online gambling use.

Psychologist AJ Sunglao said they may experience withdrawal, which are the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person suddenly reduces or stops substance use, or in this case, online gambling addiction.

“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 said.

While he explained that there are still no reports of medically serious withdrawal states from behavioral addictions, unlike in cases of withdrawal from illegal substances, there are possible symptoms that one has to be on the lookout for.

“These include restlessness, irritability, anxiety, low mood, sleep problems, poor concentration, and even strong cravings,” Sunglao said as he stressed how these could lead to worse mental health conditions.

He pointed out that these symptoms can be addressed with an immediate “first-aid” such as replacing the behavioural void left with healthier coping strategies, like deep breathing, short walks, journaling and exercises.