Gambling involves placing something of value (either money or items of value) on the chance of winning a prize. People gamble in many ways – through lotteries, casino games, sports betting, scratch-off tickets, video poker and even some online activities. The odds of winning are based on chance, but skill and knowledge can play a role too. The chances of winning are not guaranteed, and even the most skilled players can sometimes lose.
While most adults and teens engage in gambling without issue, a subset of these individuals develops an addiction to this behavior. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition), a person meets criteria for gambling disorder when they engage in a pattern of gambling that causes significant distress or impairment in their daily functioning.
The first step in addressing the problem is to recognize that you have a gambling addiction and that it requires professional help. If you are considering seeking help, contact a therapist or counselor who specializes in gambling disorders. The therapist will be able to assess your situation and recommend appropriate services in your area.
It is also important to set limits before you go gambling. Decide ahead of time how much you want to spend, and stick to that amount. Keep a running tally of your losses and any winnings to help you stay on track. Whenever you lose more than you planned to spend, stop gambling. Do not try to make back your losses – this is known as “chasing” and can lead to more significant financial losses and problems in other areas of your life.
Understand that gambling is a vice and that you are risking your health, relationships, and money. The best way to combat this is to replace it with healthier and more fulfilling activities. Some suggestions include exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, finding new hobbies, and practicing relaxation techniques. You can also seek out support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is a 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous.
Gambling is not only a problem for those who suffer from it; it can be problematic for family members as well. For this reason, it is recommended that you seek professional help if your family member has a gambling problem. Family therapy can help you work through issues that may be contributing to the gambling addiction, and marriage, career, and credit counseling can help you get your finances in order.
Some people who have a gambling addiction also have other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. These people are at an increased risk for suicide. If you think that someone you know is at risk of taking their own life, call 911 or seek emergency care. The person’s safety is more important than any potential money lost in a gamble. If possible, the adolescent should be removed from the environment where the gambling is occurring and be taken to a hospital for treatment.
