Gambling is the wagering of something of value on an event characterized by some degree of randomness or chance, with the intention of winning a prize. The term is also used to describe activities such as horse or dog racing, football accumulators and lottery games. In addition, some speculative investments such as business or insurance ventures are considered gambling. The concept of gambling is distinguished from bona fide business transactions that are valid under the law, such as buying and selling securities or commodities, contracts of indemnity or guaranty, and life, health and accident insurance.
A person is a gambler if he or she:
Is preoccupied with gambling (e.g., thinking about past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, searching for ways to get money with which to gamble).
Spends more time and more money on gambling than is socially acceptable or financially sustainable. Returns to gambling after a loss in an attempt to recover the lost money (chasing losses). Lies to conceal the extent of his or her involvement with gambling. Has jeopardized or lost a relationship, job, educational or career opportunity, or substantial amount of money due to gambling.
Several psychological and behavioral traits have been associated with the development of gambling problems, including impulsiveness and impaired impulse control. In addition, the occurrence of pathological gambling is associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Although research is limited, some evidence suggests that a genetic predisposition to addiction may contribute to the development of gambling problems. Other risk factors include a history of family members with gambling problems and exposure to media promotions of gambling.
Studies of individuals who meet diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder indicate that the problem is associated with significant impairment in a variety of domains, including work, relationships, finance, and self-esteem. It is estimated that 2.5 million adults (1%) have a severe gambling problem. Another 5-8 million have mild or moderate gambling problems.
The first step in overcoming gambling addiction is to acknowledge that there is a problem. This is not an easy thing to do, especially if you have suffered from compulsive gambling for a long period of time and have strained or broken a number of relationships in the process. It is also important to seek counseling for your problem gambling, preferably from a therapist who has experience working with clients with gambling disorders. You can find a licensed counselor through BetterHelp, an online service that matches you with qualified therapists. You can take a free assessment and be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. This can be a critical first step in getting the help you need to overcome your gambling addiction. Getting help for your gambling addiction can be the first step towards recovering your life and resolving a lot of stress and pain in your relationships and finances. Don’t try to fight it alone; there are many others who have been in your shoes, and they have successfully broken the cycle of gambling addiction.
