Gambling involves risking money or something of value in the hope of winning more money or a prize. It is an activity that is widely accepted and regulated in most societies. However, a significant subset of people who begin gambling develop a problem that is so severe that it affects their daily functioning. In fact, pathological gambling is so serious that it has been categorized as a mental disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
It is not known what causes someone to become addicted to gambling. It is possible that genetic factors play a role, and it is also likely that environmental factors are involved. There is some evidence that certain mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder, increase the risk of developing a gambling problem. In addition, people who have been exposed to traumatic events or major life changes may be more likely to develop a problem.
People who are more vulnerable to gambling problems include those who are poor or living on welfare, especially men and younger people. In some cases, this vulnerability may be due to a history of childhood abuse or neglect. In other cases, it may be due to a family member with a gambling addiction. It is thought that a combination of factors, including impulsivity and a lack of self-control, contribute to the development of gambling problems.
One of the biggest obstacles to overcoming a gambling problem is finding ways to control spending and limit access to money. This can be done by making sure there are no credit cards in your name, putting someone else in charge of your finances, and closing online betting accounts. It is also helpful to make sure you have a friend or family member who will encourage you not to gamble and provide support when you are struggling.
In some cases, a person who is struggling with a gambling problem may find relief by joining a peer support group. These groups are often modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and participants work with a “sponsor,” or a former gambler who has successfully recovered from the addiction. Other helpful steps to take include getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and practicing relaxation techniques.
Ultimately, the best way to overcome a gambling problem is to talk to a doctor. A therapist can help you identify the specific triggers that lead to your urges to gamble, and then teach you skills to cope with them. In some cases, a psychologist may use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which examines the beliefs you hold about betting and how they affect your behavior. CBT can help you understand that the things you think about gambling aren’t necessarily true, and can help you change the negative behaviors associated with it. A therapist can also help you develop strategies to manage your finances and set limits on how much you can spend. The goal is to stop the cycle of gambling and recovering from it, and to focus on the positive aspects of your life.