Gambling is a risky activity where people place bets on events that are primarily chance and expect to win money. It has been a part of human society since prerecorded history, often incorporated into local customs and rites of passage. Although gambling is legal, it can cause serious problems for gamblers and their families. Problem gamblers may become unable to control their gambling, lose their jobs and homes, and have a negative impact on family and friends. Gambling also can be a source of addiction and can lead to mental illness, including depression and substance abuse.
Gambling addiction is complex, but there are ways to help. The first step is to recognize that you have a problem and admit it. Then, get help from a professional, such as a counselor or psychologist. Medications can help with the symptoms, and there are also inpatient or residential treatment programs. These are suited for those who have severe gambling addiction and cannot quit on their own.
A key factor in gambling addiction is impulsivity. It is related to the broader personality trait of sensation-and novelty-seeking. Research suggests that it may involve cognitive distortions, the use of escape coping strategies, and mood disorders. In addition, it is often associated with a lack of financial skills and poor judgment.
Another factor is the desire to obtain an early big win. This is a typical illusion of control, which can be reinforced by the belief that winning big means you will never lose again. Other factors include boredom susceptibility, a poor understanding of random events, the use of gambling as a way to cope with stress and depression, and the need to make a quick profit.
Although there is debate about whether pathological gambling should be classified as an addiction, many experts agree that the behavior has some similarities to addictive drug use. In fact, the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III-R) emphasizes the similarity between gambling and substance abuse by literally copying the criteria for drug addiction.
While a person is trying to break the habit of gambling, they should focus on making healthy lifestyle changes and strengthen their support system. They should stop using credit cards, put someone else in charge of their finances, and close online betting accounts. They should also start exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, and finding new ways to relieve boredom and unpleasant emotions. Lastly, they should join a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. A key feature of these groups is having a sponsor—a former gambler who has successfully overcome their addiction—to provide guidance and support. These steps can be difficult, but they are essential to a successful recovery from gambling addiction. It is also important for family members to realize that they are not alone in dealing with their loved one’s addiction. They should reach out to other families who have been through the same thing.