Gambling is a social activity in which people risk something of value, usually money, to predict the outcome of a game or event with an element of chance. This activity is a popular pastime and many enjoy it in moderation, but for some people, gambling can become an addiction. Several factors can cause this, including genetics, environment and medical history.
Symptoms of a gambling problem include: (1) losing control over gambling; (2) lying to family members, therapists or others to hide the extent of involvement with gambling; (3) borrowing money or selling possessions to finance gambling; (4) gambling until spending all or most of your income, and then moving on to other money that you don’t have, such as bills, credit cards, or things for your children; (5) using your house, car, or furniture as collateral; (6) committing illegal acts, such as theft, fraud, embezzlement, or forgery to fund gambling; and (7) jeopardizing a relationship, job, or education opportunity to gamble. Some people may also experience depression, which can trigger or be made worse by compulsive gambling.
People with a gambling problem often spend time away from work or family, and are unable to stop spending money on gambling. They may be reluctant to ask for help, and they are frequently in denial. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek treatment immediately.
The good news is that there are many ways to overcome a gambling addiction. The first step is to strengthen your support network. This can be done by reaching out to family and friends, or making new connections through activities such as reading, sports, joining a club, enrolling in an education class, or volunteering. You can also join a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step recovery model used by Alcoholics Anonymous.
Other treatments for gambling addiction can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, and marriage or career counseling. These techniques can help you understand why you feel the need to gamble, and address underlying mood problems. Some people with a gambling disorder also benefit from medication. For some, this is the only treatment option that provides significant long-term improvement.
Lastly, you can try to curb your urge to gamble by practicing other healthy habits. For example, don’t drink free cocktails at a casino; there’s probably a reason the bartenders are serving them. Also, don’t chase your losses; if you lose a bet, think about what caused the loss and try to avoid the same mistake in the future. By following these tips, you can reduce your urge to gamble and improve your life in the process. However, if you continue to struggle with a gambling addiction, seek treatment and support as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to quit. The good news is that recovery from gambling addiction is possible, and it’s worth the effort!
