Gambling involves betting or staking something of value, often money, on an event whose outcome is determined by chance. It can take many forms, from placing bets on sports events or games of chance such as scratchcards to gambling online with friends. When it is done compulsively, it can have devastating consequences on individuals and families.
In modern society, gambling is as prevalent as ever and is available to almost anyone with access to the internet. While the majority of gamblers do not have a problem, there are those who find it difficult to control their gambling habits, which can lead to financial ruin and social isolation. Historically, gambling has been linked to corruption, crime and positive and negative economic and social impacts. It is not uncommon to see references to gambling in the arts, literature and culture, both contemporary and historical.
There are several key signs of a gambling problem that can help you determine whether someone you know is struggling with an addiction to gambling. These include:
A compulsion to spend more and more time on gambling activities. A refusal to stop gambling despite losses, even when this leads to significant debts. A need to hide gambling activity from others. The use of lies and manipulation to conceal a gambling habit from those close to you. A feeling of a need to keep winning, or even just a small win, to maintain the buzz that gambling provides.
It is important to note that while there are similarities between gambling disorder and substance use disorders (SUDs), there are also features of PG that have no obvious parallel in SUDs. For example, there is a high prevalence of “loss chasing” in gambling disorder, where gamblers continue to bet despite mounting losses in the hope that they will recover their previous investments. This may be due to cognitive distortions, where gamblers are susceptible to elevated confidence and overestimation of their chances of winning.
While it is difficult to break free from a gambling problem, it is possible with help and support. Seeking professional therapy is usually the best option, especially if your gambling has led to depression or damaged relationships. BetterHelp is an online therapy service that can match you with a therapist who has experience treating gambling disorders. To get started, simply take our assessment and receive a call back within 24 hours.
If you have a loved one who has a gambling problem, it is important to seek help for them as soon as possible. It can be tempting to try to handle the situation on your own, but this can often make it worse. Reaching out to a support group and seeking professional treatment will give you the tools you need to help your loved one regain control of their life. You can start by helping them set boundaries in managing their money. This may involve taking over their credit cards and limiting the amount of time they can spend gambling.