i'm an "all or nothing" kind of person. so if i'm gambling (sports betting only), then i'm obsessing about it. line movement tracking, reading game write-ups from numerous sites, making notes on a spreadsheet, keeping logs, etc.
i rarely leave the house during this time, except to do the bare necessities. i avoid socializing and just don't want to be disturbed. my physical and mental health aren't a priority at all during this time.
odd thing is, i don't actually gamble often (only football season and some early college hoops) and i don't bet any kind of money that i can't afford to lose. i even do pretty decent at times, but it means nothing.
i guess, in theory, i hate myself for gambling but i grew up a huge sports fan so i'd be watching the games anyway. maybe it's just a way for me to somehow quantify my opinion about the teams and players.. who's better or worse, etc.