Problem Gambling
Gambling involves wagering something of value on an event based largely on chance for the possibility of winning something else of value. This includes games of skill as well as those that are purely chance, such as a football match or scratchcard game. This activity has been found to stimulate economic growth in regions where it is legal and regulated, with the revenue generated by gambling establishments contributing to public services and infrastructure projects. It also provides employment opportunities, especially for those who work in casinos and other gambling establishments. The profits from gambling also provide significant funding for charitable organizations and community development initiatives.
Gambling can cause problems when a person becomes addicted to it. Addiction to gambling affects the parts of the brain that control reward and pleasure. This can cause a person to continue to gamble even when it has serious negative financial, family and personal consequences. Problem gambling can be caused by a combination of factors, including personality traits and coexisting mental health conditions.
When someone begins to have a problem with gambling, they should seek treatment from a mental health professional. They may be able to learn techniques to manage their gambling behavior and address other underlying mood disorders. Treatment options include psychotherapy, which is a general term for a variety of treatments that involve talking with a trained therapist. Other options include cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches people to identify and change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. Other therapies may help the person to find healthier ways to spend their time and money, such as exercising, spending time with family and friends, or taking up a new hobby.
The ability to recognize the signs of a gambling problem is important for family members and friends who care about the gambler. These signs include: a tendency to place bets for fun; frequent or increasing losses; lying to loved ones about gambling activities; relying on other people to fund one’s gambling or to pay off debts; and continuing to gamble, despite adverse effects on finances, work, education or personal relationships.
Although many individuals enjoy gambling, a small percentage become too involved in it and develop a gambling disorder. Problem gambling has been linked to a range of disorders, including depression, substance abuse, and anxiety. The onset of gambling disorder often occurs during a period of life when there is increased stress or a loss of a job, home, or vehicle.
The understanding of the adverse consequences of gambling has undergone a radical transformation. Whereas in the past, individuals who suffered these consequences were viewed as having gambling problems, today we see them as having psychological issues. This change in understanding has been reflected in the changes in clinical classification and description of pathological gambling in the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association.