Gambling is an activity in which people risk something of value, such as money or other goods, in order to predict the outcome of a game based on chance. It can involve a number of activities, from buying scratchcards to betting on sports events. While some people have the skills to manage their gambling behavior, others develop a serious problem that can affect their personal and professional lives.
Although most people who gamble do so for entertainment purposes, a small group of individuals become heavily involved in the activity to the point that it has substantial and negative personal, social, and financial effects. The term ‘problem gambling’ is used to describe this situation. People with a problem can be identified by their following behaviors:
The development of gambling disorder is closely related to other forms of addiction. For example, it is believed that a significant proportion of problem gamblers are also addicted to alcohol and/or drugs. This is likely due to the similarities in the neurobiological pathways that are involved in both addictions.
Psychiatrists are concerned that gambling will become more widespread in the future as access to the activity becomes easier. Currently, people can place a bet at any time of day via the internet or their mobile phones. The newest forms of gambling include sports betting and video games that allow for micro-transactions and payments. These new types of gambling are often targeted towards young people, particularly men and boys who are more likely to have a gambling problem.
While it is important to understand the factors that cause problem gambling, it is equally important to learn how to prevent it from developing in the first place. This includes seeking help for mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse that can be both triggered by and make compulsive gambling worse. It is also useful to find healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, or practicing relaxation techniques.
Unlike some other forms of recreation, gambling involves a high degree of risk. Those who choose to gamble must accept that they could lose everything they have invested. They may also have to lie or hide their gambling activities from family and friends, feel compelled to return to the activity in the hope of winning back lost money (chasing losses), and have difficulty controlling their spending. In addition, they may have trouble recognizing when it is time to stop gambling. These factors can lead to a vicious cycle where gambling causes distress and harm, and is hard to break. In fact, it is estimated that 2.5 million U.S. adults (1%) meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem. However, a further 5-8 million Americans (2-3%) have mild or moderate gambling problems.
