Gambling is a form of risk-taking in which people stake something of value, such as money or goods, on an event with an uncertain outcome. It is a common pastime for adults and adolescents, but a subset of those who gamble develop gambling disorder. Gambling disorders can cause significant distress, loss of control, and impairment. Fortunately, treatment is available.
It is important to understand what gambling is in order to protect yourself or a loved one from becoming addicted. There are many different ways to gamble, from betting on sports teams or buying lottery tickets to playing video games and online poker. However, all forms of gambling have two things in common – an element of risk and an unknown outcome. This is because gambling involves putting down something of value for the chance of winning more.
There is also a psychological component to gambling that can affect people even if they do not have a substance use disorder or mental illness. Researchers have observed that the brains of pathological gamblers appear to respond to stimuli and rewards in a similar manner to those who use drugs or alcohol. This is why some experts have suggested that gambling disorder should be moved from the Impulse Control Disorders to a proposed new category called Behavioral Addictions.
Some factors that contribute to a person’s risk for gambling include genetics, family history, personality traits, and environment. A person’s motivation to gamble may also be related to a desire to escape from stressful situations or a need for a feeling of excitement and reward.
It can be difficult to break the cycle of gambling when a person is suffering from an addiction, but support from family and friends can help. Reducing stress, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques can also decrease a person’s urge to gamble.
Another important factor in stopping a gambling problem is setting boundaries and making sure that the gambler has enough money to cover their expenses. This can be done by limiting their access to credit cards, having someone else manage the finances, and reviewing bank and credit card statements regularly.
If you or a loved one has a gambling problem, seek help from a reputable provider. A professional can help you set financial and emotional boundaries, find other activities to do, and assist with finding resources for treatment. They can also teach you healthy coping skills and help you find healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings such as boredom or loneliness. The first step is to decide that you need help. Then, seek out a professional to talk about local referrals for gambling counselors or intensive treatment programs in your area. Often, these are located at public or private addiction treatment facilities. They can be accessed via phone, internet, or in-person. A therapist can help you learn to recognize and respond to the impulse to gamble and can offer you tools to overcome your problem.