Gambling is wagering something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value, where instances of strategy are discounted. This can include buying lottery tickets, playing card games such as bridge or poker, betting on races or sporting events, using the pokies at a casino, or even placing bets with friends on a game of dice.
The behavior associated with gambling disorders ranges from behaviors that put individuals at risk for developing more serious problems (subclinical) to those that meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition criteria for pathological gambling (PG). People who engage in these types of behaviors are known as disordered gamblers.
When it comes to gambling, humans are biologically wired to seek rewards. Whether that is the satisfaction of spending time with loved ones or the pleasure from eating a delicious meal, our brains reward these behaviors with positive feelings. Unfortunately, some people have a genetic predisposition toward seeking these rewards and have difficulty controlling impulses. Research shows that gambling has similar neurobiological features to substance use disorders, including changes in dopamine and serotonin systems.
People are more likely to develop gambling disorder when they have underlying mood conditions, such as depression or anxiety, or if they begin to gamble at young ages. These conditions can also make it harder to recognize a problem and to seek help.
Often, it is the person’s family members who first notice a gambling problem. They may become concerned when a relative spends more than they can afford, hides financial information or lies about their gambling activities. They may feel powerless to help their loved one break the habit, but it is important to understand that there are ways to get help for a gambling addiction.
There are many different psychological therapies available to treat a gambling disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, helps people identify and unlearn negative and obsessive thoughts that influence their behaviors. This type of therapy can be paired with motivational interviewing to push people to change their behavior.
Other treatments for gambling disorders include physical activity, support groups and self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, and psychiatric medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs. Some people also find relief from practicing mindfulness or meditation techniques.
Gambling is legal in most jurisdictions and can be conducted through casinos, lotteries, online gambling and mobile apps, and sportsbooks. It is not uncommon for individuals to play multiple games at once, and they can place bets in both cash and virtual currency.
It is important to set money and time limits when gambling. Never bet more than you can afford to lose, and always stop before you reach your limit. It’s also helpful to budget your gambling and consider it an entertainment expense, like going out for dinner, instead of seeing it as a way to make money. It is also important to never chase your losses, as this can lead to bigger and bigger losses.