Gambling is risking something of value on an activity that involves chance, such as a game of cards or a lottery. The prize is usually money, but can also be goods or services. It has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history and is often incorporated into local customs and rites of passage. It can be a source of entertainment, recreation, socializing and even self-soothing. However, when gambling becomes an addiction it can damage your health and interfere with your life in many ways.
Gambling addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of Americans. While most adults and adolescents have gambled at some time, a small percentage develop an addictive disorder, defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a recurrent pattern of gambling that causes significant distress or impairment.
The good news is that treatment is available, and it is often successful. However, a person must first recognize that they have a gambling problem before it can be effectively addressed. Symptoms of a gambling problem include:
Seek help for underlying mood disorders. Depression and anxiety can trigger or make worse gambling problems. If you are unable to stop gambling, consider seeking counseling or joining a support group for compulsive gamblers (similar to Alcoholics Anonymous). Other healthy ways to relieve unpleasant feelings and socialize include exercise, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and exploring new hobbies. If your financial situation is unstable, try reducing your expenses and establishing more stable income sources.