Gambling involves risking something of value on an event that is determined at least partly by chance, with the hope of winning a prize. While most people associate gambling with casinos and slot machines, a wide variety of activities can constitute gambling, including playing bingo, buying lottery or scratch tickets, placing bets on office pools, and betting on sports events. While the monetary rewards of gambling may be tempting, the psychological and social costs can be significant. In fact, gambling addiction has the highest suicide rate of any substance use disorder and causes the most family discord and financial strain.
Although most adults and adolescents in the United States have placed some type of bet, a subset develops a problem called gambling disorder, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 defines gambling disorder as a persistent, recurrent pattern of behavior that involves risk-taking with serious consequences for the person’s health, wellbeing or relationships.
People with a gambling disorder are highly vulnerable to developing other problems, such as depression and anxiety. They also tend to be more likely to gamble than those without the disorder, especially people with lower incomes who may have more to gain from a large win. Vulnerability to gambling disorders is higher in males and adolescents, although it can affect people of any gender or age. The most common risk factor is having a family history of gambling disorder.
Behavioral therapy can help people overcome a gambling disorder. This includes group therapy, where patients meet with a mental health professional and describe their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors to other members of the group. Individual psychotherapy, where a person meets with a trained psychologist or clinical social worker, can also be helpful. Psychotherapy can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, a treatment that helps change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors by teaching new skills and replacing maladaptive ones.
Another important aspect of overcoming gambling is to develop healthy ways to cope with stress. This can be done by learning to relax, finding other enjoyable activities, or addressing any coexisting mental health conditions that could contribute to the behavior. In addition, avoiding gambling environments where others have been known to engage in problematic behavior can be beneficial.
Managing one’s bankroll is critical to reducing gambling addiction. This can be done by keeping track of how much money is spent on a game, and by setting a time limit for the amount of time you can spend gambling. Taking breaks, and not gambling when you are tired or distracted, can also help. It is also a good idea to avoid games that you don’t understand. By doing so, you will be less likely to make mistakes that can lead to a loss. Additionally, it is a good idea to set aside a dedicated bankroll for gambling and to stay within that limit. If you feel that you are starting to lose control, then it is time to stop.
