Gambling Disorders
Gambling is an activity in which people place a bet on the outcome of a game or contest. It is considered to be a recreational activity and most people participate without any negative consequences. However, some people develop a gambling disorder that causes them to have significant adverse consequences. Historically, such individuals have been viewed as having psychological problems, but in recent years the clinical understanding of pathological gambling has undergone a dramatic change.
Most forms of gambling involve the wagering of money or other valuables. Some examples include playing card games such as poker or blackjack, placing bets on the outcome of a sporting event such as a football game or horse race, and participating in organized lotteries. People also make informal bets with friends and family members in a social setting, such as the pooling of money to place bets on a football match or other sporting event. There are even video games that allow players to wager virtual money.
There is no single form of gambling that is more addictive than any other, and it is possible to be addicted to any type of betting. The risk of developing a problem is increased when a person starts to gamble for money that they do not have, or when they bet more than they can afford to lose.
Although the majority of adults and adolescents engage in some form of gambling, a substantial subset of these individuals experiences adverse effects. In addition to the monetary costs associated with problem gambling, there are social and psychological costs as well. The social costs of gambling are largely attributed to the disruptions to personal relationships, loss of employment and reduced productivity, as well as the harm caused by compulsive and addictive behavior.
Casinos provide a large number of jobs and bring in a considerable amount of tax revenue. This has positive effects on the local economy, helping to alleviate poverty and unemployment rates. In many instances, casino operations have helped to stabilize and improve local economic conditions in regions that are largely rural or isolated.
Changing unhealthy patterns of behavior is the key to addressing a gambling problem. If you find yourself gambling to self-soothe unpleasant emotions or relieve boredom, seek help from a mental health professional. There are healthier ways to manage these feelings, including exercise, spending time with friends who do not gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques.
If you are concerned that a loved one is gambling too much, try to set financial boundaries. This may mean taking over payment of bills, closing online betting accounts, or limiting the amount of cash in your possession. If you are the spouse or partner of a problem gambler, it is important to reach out for support. Talking with other families who have dealt with this issue can be helpful, as you will realize that you are not alone. Seek therapy for mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, which can both trigger gambling and worsen the impact of compulsive gambling.
