Gambling is an activity in which something of value is placed on an event that is primarily chance with the intent of realizing a profit. It has existed in virtually every culture since prerecorded history and has been incorporated into local customs and rites of passage throughout the centuries. Gambling includes activities in which skill is not involved, such as dice or card games, and also activities in which skill can improve the chances of winning, such as horse racing.
It is not uncommon for people to engage in gambling for social, recreational or financial reasons. However, a small percentage of individuals become excessively involved in gambling, to the extent that it causes significant personal, family or financial problems. This group is considered to be gambling addicts, and treatment for this condition is available.
Symptoms of gambling addiction include secretive behaviour, lying to family members about the amount of time and money spent on gambling, attempting to win back lost money, hiding evidence of gambling activity and using credit cards and bank accounts in ways they were not intended for. It is important to recognise these signs and seek help if you think you or someone you know may be suffering from gambling addiction.
Some studies suggest that a genetic component plays a role in a person’s propensity to gamble. Other factors, such as a person’s environment and culture, can influence the way they view gambling activity and their willingness to see it as problematic. For example, some cultures consider gambling to be a social activity and it can be difficult for individuals in these communities to recognise that they have a problem.
Research suggests that the brains of people who suffer from gambling addiction process reward information differently than those of people without this disorder. In addition, people with gambling addiction have more difficulty controlling their impulses and weighing risk against potential rewards. These differences are reflected in a change in the definition of gambling disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association.
The current DSM-5 defines pathological gambling as a serious form of gambling that has significant negative consequences for the person and their family, including an inability to control the urge to gamble. The new definition also notes that a person with this disorder continues to gamble, despite repeated unsuccessful attempts to control or reduce their gambling.
There are a number of effective treatments for gambling addiction. A treatment plan typically involves a combination of medication and counselling, which can be done in a hospital setting or in the community. Some people who struggle with this condition find it helpful to join a support group. These groups, which are modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, can provide invaluable support and guidance for recovery. For those who have trouble finding a support group in their area, online peer support is available through many websites and chat rooms. Some of these services are free, while others charge a nominal fee for membership.