Gambling involves placing something of value on a random event in an attempt to win a prize, such as money. The activity is often considered to be a game of chance because the outcome is determined by chance or luck, but it may also involve skill. For example, a player may place money on an event such as a football accumulator or horse race, but they could also gamble on the stock market.
Gambling is a popular pastime for many people. However, for some individuals, it becomes a problem that can affect their personal and professional lives. It can affect a person’s mental and physical health, relationships with others, performance at work or school, their ability to pay bills and may even result in bankruptcy and homelessness. In addition, gambling can cause depression and anxiety.
While most adults and adolescents engage in some type of gambling, a small percentage of those who start gambling develop a gambling disorder. Gambling disorder is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as an ongoing pattern of gambling behavior that causes distress or impairment in one or more areas of a person’s life.
A common feature of gambling is a lack of control over the amount and frequency of gambling. This is often due to a recurrent pattern of excessive and compulsive gambling that interferes with a person’s daily functioning and causes problems in their relationships, work and social life. In addition, a person with this condition may not be able to stop gambling even when they are aware of the risks and consequences.
Some of the most important factors that contribute to a person developing a gambling disorder are the following:
Behavioral disinhibition: This is a term used to describe an individual’s decreased ability to control their impulses. Those who struggle with this condition can easily be led by their emotions, particularly feelings of excitement or pleasure. This is why people with this condition often become involved in a wide range of activities that require impulsive responses, including drug and alcohol use, shopping, sports, and risky sexual behaviors.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are steps that can be taken to help overcome it. First, it is important to seek help. This can be done by talking to a therapist who specializes in addiction. BetterHelp is an online therapy service that matches you with licensed therapists who can help with gambling addiction and other issues related to depression, anxiety and relationships. Start by taking our assessment, and you can be connected with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Then, you can begin to rebuild your life. We have helped thousands of people just like you, and we are here to support you every step of the way. We’ll walk you through the process of breaking the cycle of gambling addiction and reclaiming your life. It’s time to start living again.