Gambling involves risking something of value – usually money – in a game of chance with the hope of winning more than was lost. People gamble by playing games like cards, dice, horse races, bingo, lottery tickets, slots and machines, video games, sports betting and more. Some forms of gambling are legal and others are not. People gamble for many reasons, including socializing with friends, escaping boredom, reducing stress or as a way to win money. However, gambling can become problematic when the harms of the habit outweigh the entertainment value.
People are increasingly turning to online gambling and mobile gaming. These activities can be more addictive than traditional casino and land-based gambling, since they allow for frequent small wins and the ability to play around the clock. These factors may contribute to the rapid rise of problem gambling, which is now a serious public health concern in the US.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of gambling disorder in yourself or a loved one. The first step is admitting that there is a problem, which can be difficult for some people. It is also helpful to have a support system and access to resources. Many states have helplines and treatment programs. Other options for support include family therapy, marriage counseling and career, financial or credit counseling.
When someone is battling gambling addiction, the brain’s reward pathways change, making it hard to stop gambling even when the losses outweigh the entertainment value. In addition, the brain produces a dopamine response when a person is successful, which can reinforce bad habits in the same way as an athletic coach might do. The difference is that people who gamble dopamine rewards from the games they play are not trying to improve their skill – they’re simply looking for the next big win.
Some of the reasons for gambling addiction include an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a lack of understanding about random events and using gambling as a way to escape from unpleasant feelings such as boredom or stress. Other risk factors include being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, depression, a high-stress lifestyle and having a culture that values gambling.
The good news is that there are effective treatments for gambling addiction. The first step is admitting there is a problem, which can be very difficult for some people, especially if they have strained or broken relationships and have lost large sums of money. It’s also helpful to have a support system and to find other ways to relieve boredom or stress.
It’s also important to set boundaries and take control of money matters. This can be as simple as setting up automatic payments for bills, putting someone else in charge of finances or closing gambling accounts. Lastly, it’s a good idea to talk with a therapist who specializes in relationships, finances and mental health. BetterHelp is an online service that can match you with a licensed, accredited therapist in as little as 48 hours. Take our free assessment to see if therapy is right for you.
