Gambling involves placing something of value, often money, on a random event with the intention of winning. It is considered a type of behavior that can be addictive, and some people are addicted to gambling to the point where it has significant negative personal, family, financial, and career consequences. It is estimated that the total amount of legal money wagered on casino games, lotteries, and sporting events worldwide is about $10 trillion annually.1
Gambling can be an enjoyable activity when it is done for entertainment purposes only, but the risk of addiction can quickly become a major problem for those who have trouble controlling their gambling behaviors. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help those suffering from pathological gambling.
The first thing that you should know is that gambling is a high-risk activity, and the more time you spend gambling, the more likely you are to lose. The key to staying in control is setting a time limit for yourself and sticking to it. Then, when the time is up, stop gambling and move on to another activity.
Most people gamble for social or financial reasons. They may be playing for a chance to win big, or they may just enjoy the thrill of putting a bet down and hoping that lady luck is on their side. While it is possible to win a lot of money by gambling, the odds of doing so are very slim.
People who engage in problem gambling do so because they are impulsive and cannot control their impulses. In addition, they exhibit compulsive behaviors like lying, spending, and stealing to fund their gambling activities. As a result, they are unable to control their spending and have serious problems at work and home.
Some individuals develop a gambling disorder due to genetics, while others experience an environmental stressor such as the loss of a job or divorce. In either case, these individuals are at higher risk for developing a gambling problem than those who do not.
While it is important to recognize the symptoms of gambling disorder, it is also essential to assess and evaluate patients for signs of an underlying mental health condition. In addition to evaluating the patient’s history and physical exam, psychiatrists can utilize laboratory tests such as blood pressure, electrocardiograms, and bloodwork to screen for psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder and depression.
It can be difficult to cope with a loved one’s gambling addiction, especially if you are the primary source of funds for their addiction. It is essential to set boundaries in terms of managing money, and to seek outside support for yourself, such as marriage and family counseling and credit counseling services. These services can help you repair your relationships and finances, and help the problem gambler get on a track to recovery. Also, do not be afraid to ask for help from your physician if necessary.