Gambling is the wagering of something of value on a random event, where instances of strategy are discounted. It requires three elements: consideration, risk, and a prize. People gamble for a variety of reasons, including enjoyment, socialization, and excitement. It can also help meet basic human needs such as the need for belonging, status, or a sense of accomplishment. In addition, gambling can relieve unpleasant feelings such as boredom or depression. However, if gambling is used to escape reality, it can have harmful effects. Problem gambling can damage relationships, harm work performance and study success, lead to debt and homelessness, and affect health and well-being.
Several factors can contribute to gambling addiction, including genetics, family history, and environment. Biologically, people with an underactive brain reward system or who are predisposed to thrill-seeking behaviours may be more likely to become addicted to gambling. Cultural beliefs and values can also influence how much people enjoy gambling and what constitutes a problem.
The term “pathological gambling” was dropped from the DSM-5 in 2013, but compulsive and addictive gambling remains a significant mental illness. Many people with a pathological gambling disorder have underlying mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, or alcohol use disorder that can trigger or worsen their gambling problems.
A person can develop a gambling addiction for a number of reasons, including recreational interest, a desire to win money, poor judgment, and cognitive distortions. The DSM-5 defines pathological gambling as “a compulsive urge to gamble despite adverse consequences.” Other symptoms include an inability to control impulses and a negative attitude toward gambling.
For some people, gambling can be a way to feel social with friends and co-workers. It can be seen as a glamorous and fashionable pastime, with the media portraying it as fun, sexy, and exciting. Other people gamble to cope with problems, like financial difficulties, boredom, depression, or grief. They can also be influenced by their friends and co-workers, or family members who are avid gamblers.
People can develop a tolerance to gambling, which means that they need to gamble more and more to experience the same level of satisfaction. This process is similar to how someone can build up a tolerance to drugs or alcohol. Tolerance to gambling can be prevented by setting limits and avoiding high-risk situations. It is also important to practice relaxation techniques.
If you know a loved one who is struggling with a gambling addiction, you can help them by strengthening their support network and providing healthy alternatives to gambling. You can encourage them to participate in healthier activities that relieve boredom or depression, such as exercise, spending time with non-gambling friends, or taking up new hobbies. You can also suggest that they join a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step recovery model of Alcoholics Anonymous. The organization has local chapters across the country, and it can connect them with a sponsor who is another former gambler with experience staying free from gambling.