~snip~
Every addiction is psychological, and from what I noticed recently, people could be addicted to anything, only that most of what we are addicted to are not harmful or calls for too much attention, and that's why we don't seem to notice them. As it is in gambling, it's better to prepare our minds before we start gambling at all, which is why I will give it as an exemption to what you mentioned above about people becoming defeated by addiction if you advise them. This is not particularly true for all as the consciousness of gamblers helps in this regard, but that is when they could truly prepare their minds on what could possibly go wrong if they give in to gambling addiction.
This goes beyond merely telling them about the addiction to gambling but better educating them or the gamblers educating themselves on what could cause gambling addiction, the danger of the addiction and why gambling is the last place to look towards when someone is looking for a get-rich-quick scheme or trying to pay back debt. Desperation in gambling often leads to more loss. The earlier a starter knows this, the better for them unless they are foolish or daring themselves, then you let them learn from their mistake or wallow in their folly.
Doesn't someone claim morality today? Everyone's an addiction specialist these days, right? While you're preaching about gambling addiction's hazards, remember that a million other addictions are ignored because they're "less harmful"
You think gambling is for cowards? Uncontrollable urges? Wrong! A sport for the strong, bold, and determined. Some survive and flourish! As you said, education is vital. Not simply the dread and gloom you sell
The real education is playing the game, knowing the dangers, and being smarter than the ordinary Joe. The strategy, calculation, and exhilaration of winning matter. Who are you to judge someone who gambles to get rich fast or pay off debt? People have changed their fortunes like that