Gambling is a form of risk-taking in which an individual wagers something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value. In the broadest sense of the word, gambling can also refer to betting on sports games and other events where skill plays a role, as well as playing card or dice games for money. Several mental health conditions can be triggered or made worse by compulsive gambling, including depression and substance abuse.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to develop gambling problems. A family history of alcoholism or other substance abuse can also be a factor, as can stress or depression. Gambling disorders are more common among young people and men. They can also be caused by a number of factors, including boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a poor understanding of random events, and the use of gambling as an escape from boredom or stress.
Unlike drugs, which cause chemical changes in the brain, gambling is psychologically addictive. It stimulates the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that regulates emotions and motivation. When people gamble, they often feel euphoric after winning and depressed when losing. This can lead to addiction, which is usually a chronic condition that has the potential for long-term harm.
There are a number of warning signs that someone may be struggling with gambling addiction, from lying to friends and family members to hiding money or equipment. These are often seen as signs that the addiction has gotten out of hand and should be addressed as soon as possible.
The first step is to get help. This can be done by speaking to a GP or finding local NHS support. You can also join a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modelled on the 12-step recovery program of Alcoholics Anonymous. These groups can provide invaluable guidance and support to people who are trying to break their gambling addictions.
Many people who have a gambling problem also have other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety. These can be triggered or made worse by gambling, and can also lead to self-harm or suicidal thoughts. It’s important to seek professional treatment for these conditions, as they can be extremely dangerous for people with gambling disorders.
For people with gambling problems, financial difficulties can quickly mount up – bills aren’t paid, credit cards are maxed out and debts accumulate. In some cases, people end up taking out pay day loans to cover their debts, which can make the situation even worse. Some even start to steal from their loved ones or businesses to fund their gambling habits. This can damage relationships and be extremely difficult to recover from.