Gambling involves wagering something of value, usually money, on a random event in hopes of winning a prize. Examples include games of chance, such as slot machines, poker, blackjack and roulette, as well as sports betting, horse racing and lottery tickets. Despite its widespread popularity, gambling can have serious consequences for individuals and society as a whole. Some people are at greater risk for developing a gambling disorder than others, including those with lower incomes, young people and men. This article discusses the types and causes of gambling disorders, what steps can be taken to address them and how to help loved ones cope with these problems.
Many people who gamble do so because they enjoy the environment and socializing that gambling can offer. It can also be a way to relieve unpleasant emotions and stress, such as depression or anxiety. However, there are healthier and more effective ways to handle these feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble and practicing relaxation techniques.
Regardless of the reasons that someone may engage in gambling, it is important to remember that it is not a profitable activity and can often lead to financial hardship or bankruptcy. While the majority of people who file for bankruptcy do not claim gambling as the primary cause of their debt, published news accounts and bankruptcy court opinions suggest that 20 percent of those filings are gambling-related.
The onset of gambling disorders is a complex process that can be triggered by personality traits, coexisting mental health conditions and environmental factors. It is also common for people with gambling disorders to have underlying mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, which can trigger gambling behavior and make it harder to stop.
For this reason, it is important for people who have a gambling disorder to seek help from a therapist and take action to change their unhealthy behaviors. Psychotherapy includes several different treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy and family therapy. These therapies focus on helping a person identify and change unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behaviors. They can be provided by a psychologist or licensed clinical social worker.
In addition, it is recommended that people who have a gambling disorder try to find other ways to relieve boredom and stress and seek treatment for any underlying mental health conditions that might be contributing to their gambling problems. It is also important to learn to handle money in a responsible manner, such as setting a budget and only gambling with funds that can be afforded to lose. In some cases, psychotherapy alone can be enough to treat a gambling disorder. For example, psychodynamic therapy can explore unconscious processes that affect a person’s behaviors and how they are perceived by others. Similarly, group therapy allows participants to describe their struggles with gambling and provide support to one another. Moreover, some states offer gambling helplines and other resources for those who are struggling with the disorder.
