Gambling involves the risking of money or other valuables on the outcome of an event that has an element of randomness. It includes betting on sporting events and horse races, card games such as poker and blackjack, scratch cards, casino games such as roulette, and the chance to win money in a lottery. Gambling can be addictive, leading to serious problems for the gambler and those around them.
A person may have a gambling problem if their gambling is causing significant distress and affecting their daily functioning or relationships. They may experience a range of symptoms including feelings of hopelessness and denial, difficulty with concentration and memory, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating at work or school. In addition, they may have a desire to hide their behavior from family and friends. They may lie about their gambling, hiding their cash or credit cards and increasing their bets in an attempt to recover lost funds.
Some people have a genetic tendency to develop gambling disorders. Others become compulsive gamblers because of underlying mood disorders such as depression, stress, or anxiety that are made worse by gambling and make it more difficult to stop. In addition, the environment and community in which someone lives can affect their gambling habits. People in areas with many casinos and other forms of gambling have a higher risk for developing problems than those in rural or suburban areas.
The onset of gambling problems is gradual and may be difficult to recognize. It is important to identify problems early and seek help if they arise. Seek support from a friend or family member, attend a meeting of a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, or call a hotline for assistance.
Gambling is not a cure for addiction, but it can help alleviate some of the symptoms. For some people, it helps to set limits on their money. For example, limiting access to credit cards, having someone else be in charge of finances, or closing online betting accounts can help prevent a relapse. Also, it is helpful to seek therapy to address any underlying issues that are making the gambling worse.
While the DSM-3 has highlighted that pathological gambling is similar to substance abuse, the evidence supporting this comparison is almost entirely theoretical. This is because most of the studies of gambling disorder that have been conducted have involved a small number of individuals who have sought treatment, and they do not involve any control groups. Furthermore, the criteria in the DSM-3 for pathological gambling are not based on clinical observations or experience but on speculation about whether certain types of behaviors and beliefs might be better accounted for by the concept of addiction.