Gambling involves risking something of value – often money – on an event that is based on chance and is out of the person’s control. It is regulated by state and federal laws that limit where and how gambling can occur, how much can be staked, and the consequences of losing money or other valuables.
People gamble for many reasons, including to socialise with friends and family or to escape from stress or boredom. They may also have a desire for a quick fix and the ‘high’ that comes from winning. However, gambling can become a serious problem when the urge to gamble overtakes an individual’s ability to resist the urge and stop. This can lead to financial, family and health problems and even legal issues. Those with mental health problems such as depression or anxiety may find that gambling worsens their mood, and they may feel more inclined to gamble in order to try and relieve these feelings.
The ‘high’ that comes from gambling can be addictive, but it is important to remember that the odds of winning are always against you. People with mental health problems are at a greater risk of developing a gambling disorder, and if the problem is not treated it can have serious consequences for their wellbeing. The ‘high’ that comes from gambling activates the same part of the brain as drugs, and those with gambling disorders may be more likely to start using substances and other activities to boost their mood.
There are some key signs that indicate that someone’s gambling has become a problem. These include regularly spending more than they can afford to lose, borrowing money to gamble or being under significant financial stress as a result of gambling. It is also important to identify whether a person is spending more time gambling than on their family, work or other hobbies.
Those with a gambling disorder are often at risk of suicide. This is because they often experience severe lows after a loss, and the ‘high’ from gambling can make these feelings feel worse. It is therefore important to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one has a gambling problem, and to set boundaries around your betting, take control of your finances and review bank and credit card statements.
Gambling disorders are treatable, and the best way to address them is through cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT will examine how you think about your betting and what beliefs you have that contribute to your problem. For example, some people who have a gambling disorder believe that they are more likely to win than others, or that certain rituals will increase their luck. These beliefs can be changed through CBT, which can also teach you to recognise triggers and replace them with healthy coping mechanisms. This will help to rebalance your brain’s system of rewards and you should find that you start to experience more pleasure in other aspects of life.