Gambling involves placing something of value, usually money, on a random event with the intention of winning something else of value. It can be a form of entertainment, or it can be a way to pass time. The most common type of gambling is placing a bet on a sporting event, but it can also involve lottery games, card games and online games such as poker.
People with gambling problems can have serious effects on their physical and emotional health, relationships, work or study performance, ability to meet financial obligations and even lead to homelessness. Problem gambling is often a co-occurring disorder with other mental health issues. Studies suggest that nearly 4% of people receiving treatment for substance use disorders also have a gambling problem, and that approximately 7% of psychiatric inpatients have a gambling disorder (Nature Human Behavior, Vol. 2, 2018).
Research suggests that there are a number of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing a gambling problem. These include an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, poor understanding of random events, the use of gambling as an escape coping mechanism and a history of stressful life experiences.
Developing an addiction to gambling can affect people of all ages and genders, although men seem to be more vulnerable than women. People who have a family history of gambling problems are more likely to develop an addiction, as are those who have other mental health conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder. People who are isolated or socially excluded can also be at greater risk.
There are many ways to help a person with gambling problems. One is to encourage them to engage in more enjoyable activities, such as spending time with friends who don’t gamble, learning new hobbies and exercising. Another is to establish boundaries around how much money they can spend on gambling-related activities, and to monitor their finances carefully.
People who have a gambling addiction can be encouraged to seek professional help, such as individual and group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy. They can also benefit from support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a similar format to Alcoholics Anonymous and is based on the Twelve Steps of Recovery.
The first step in overcoming an addiction to gambling is to admit that there is a problem. This can be a difficult step, especially if you have lost a lot of money and have damaged or strained relationships as a result of your gambling. But it is important to remember that many others have overcome gambling addictions, and that you are not alone. You can find the strength and courage to change, with the help of others who are ready to walk the path with you.