Gambling is the wagering of something of value, usually money, on an event with a chance of winning something else of value. The event can be a game, an election or any other activity in which there is a degree of randomness and uncertainty. This activity can be undertaken on a small scale, such as betting on horse or greyhound races or football accumulators, or in a larger context, such as casino gambling, lotteries, sports events and business or insurance speculation.
While some people can enjoy gambling, for others it becomes a compulsive behaviour that negatively impacts their lives in many ways. It can cause relationship difficulties, jeopardise their health and career prospects and leave them with serious debt. Some people may even attempt suicide as a result of their gambling addiction.
In addition to financial harm, a person with pathological gambling can experience feelings of guilt, anxiety and depression. They might lie to family members, therapists and employers to conceal their involvement with gambling or use illegal activities such as forgery, embezzlement and theft to finance their gambling habit. They might also lose a job, jeopardize their education or employment opportunities or become homeless due to gambling problems. Pathological gamblers are often preoccupied with gambling and spend a significant amount of time engaged in this activity, even when they are not at the casino.
Approximately 0.4% to 1.6% of Americans meet criteria for a diagnosis of pathological gambling disorder (PG). The prevalence of PG increases with age, and it is more common in men than women. Moreover, males develop PG at a faster rate and start gambling earlier in life than females. Similarly, PG is more likely to affect nonstrategic forms of gambling, such as slot machines and bingo, than strategic games, such as poker or blackjack.
It is important to note that there are treatment programs available to help people with a gambling problem. These include inpatient and residential rehab facilities for those who are unable to control their gambling behaviour in outpatient settings. The goal of these programs is to provide a supportive environment and teach behavioural therapy techniques that can be used in the real world. In some cases, these treatments can lead to full recovery.
If you have a loved one who has a gambling addiction, seek professional help for yourself and your family members. Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, can be a good source of peer support and may include a sponsor, someone who has successfully remained free from gambling addiction, and regular meetings. Physical activity and socialising with friends who don’t involve gambling are also helpful. It is also a good idea to reduce the financial risk factors of gambling by not using credit cards, taking out loans and carrying large amounts of cash. Also, try not to engage in gambling when you are feeling depressed or anxious. It is easier to make poor decisions when you are in these moods.