Gambling is the wagering of money or something of value, including time, on an event with an uncertain outcome. Events that can be considered gambling include buying lottery tickets, playing card games for money, betting on sports events like horse races and football games, or a wide variety of electronic gaming devices such as video poker and slot machines. In addition, some people also consider social activities involving the placement of bets or money as gambling, such as dice games, bingo and keno.
Harmful gambling affects individuals, families and communities. It can result in financial stress, relationship breakdown, family violence and mental illness. It can also contribute to substance and alcohol use disorders, and suicide. In addition, it has a direct economic impact by generating significant taxation revenues for governments. However, this revenue may also contribute to perceived incentives that encourage people to gamble.
Understanding Harmful Gambling
The way we think about harmful gambling behavior has undergone profound change over the past few decades. Previously, we considered that it was the fault of the gambler and his or her personality problems. Today, we understand that gambling harm is caused by a combination of factors, including impaired thinking and problem-solving skills, poor judgment and cognitive distortions, and a desire for sensation and novelty seeking. These changes have been reflected in, and perhaps influenced, the description of pathological gambling in the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
When you have an addiction to gambling, it’s no longer about fun or entertainment. It’s about profit or escape, and it’s a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is designed to help individuals requiring treatment for gambling addiction learn healthier thinking patterns. In addition, some individuals benefit from peer support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.
What’s more, a reputable treatment program will also include pharmacological interventions and other behavioral therapies. These can include family therapy, motivational enhancement and goal setting techniques, and cognitive-behavioral coping strategies for addressing urges and cravings. Lastly, a comprehensive treatment program will also address any co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Recognizing signs of problem gambling is a critical first step in reaching out for help. A person who is exhibiting symptoms of a gambling disorder should take immediate action to reduce or stop their gambling activity. In addition, they should try to find other ways to relieve their emotional distress, such as by exercising or spending time with loved ones. They should also take control of their finances, and review their bank and credit card statements. Finally, they should seek support from a counselor or other qualified professional who can provide information on local referral resources for treatment programs.