Gambling is a type of risk-taking wherein people bet money or other items of value on events that involve chance. People may gamble in casinos, lotteries, video games and in other ways that involve taking a chance. Some people have a gambling addiction, and their behavior can cause problems in their personal relationships, work, and finances. If you are concerned that someone close to you has a gambling problem, seek professional help as soon as possible.
While most adults and adolescents in the United States have placed a bet, a small percentage of those who gamble go on to develop a pathological gambling disorder, defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as a persistent and recurrent pattern of gambling that results in significant distress or impairment. People who have a gambling disorder may also be exhibiting symptoms of other psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
The development of a gambling disorder is complex, and the nomenclature that surrounds it is fluid and subject to disagreement. For example, researchers, psychiatrists, other treatment care clinicians, and public policy makers frame questions about gambling in different ways based on their disciplinary training, experience and special interests. Some of these perspectives have stimulated controversy and debate.
Understanding what makes some people more vulnerable to developing a gambling problem is important because it can help to inform prevention and treatment efforts. Research shows that certain groups are more likely to develop a gambling disorder than others, including those with low incomes who have less to lose if they win a prize and young people who start gambling early. In addition, men are more likely to develop a gambling disorder and they may be at higher risk for developing other behavioral problems as well, such as substance abuse or other types of addictive behaviors.
People who are susceptible to a gambling disorder often exhibit several behavioral and cognitive characteristics, such as an overly positive evaluation of past outcomes, a false sense of control, an inability to understand the odds of winning or losing, impulsivity, and the use of escape coping. Other risk factors include depression, boredom susceptibility, a poor understanding of random events, and stressful life experiences.
Many individuals who are struggling with a gambling addiction benefit from therapy or support groups. Family therapy can address the specific issues caused by problem gambling and provide tools to overcome it. Individuals who have a gambling addiction can also benefit from support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step model of recovery similar to that of Alcoholics Anonymous. Other helpful interventions for those with a gambling addiction include marriage or family counseling, financial management assistance and credit counselors. Individuals who have a gambling addiction should also consider joining a social activity such as a book club, sports team or art class and seek out new friends outside of the casino or other places where they might gamble. In addition, they should avoid chasing their losses, and never borrow money to continue gambling.
