Gambling involves risking something of value on an event largely determined by chance in the hope of realizing a profit. It has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history and has been incorporated into local customs and rites of passage throughout the ages. Although most individuals gamble responsibly and enjoy the social aspect of gambling, a small group becomes heavily involved and begins to experience serious negative personal, family, and financial consequences. This is referred to as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling and it can be diagnosed by psychologists using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria.
The psychological effects of gambling are complex and differ across the various types of gambling. However, research has grouped problem gambling into a single category based upon the consistent phenomenology of these games. This includes lottery, video poker, blackjack, sports betting, and other games involving an element of chance.
While the most obvious symptom of gambling problems is money loss, it’s important to look for other signs of a problem. For example, are you secretive about your gambling or lying to others? Do you find it difficult to stop gambling, even when you’ve lost everything? Do you become desperate to win back what you’ve lost?
When you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s important to seek help from a counselor or treatment program. This can be in the form of outpatient treatment, residential treatment, or inpatient rehab programs. Seeking treatment is the first step to overcoming your gambling addiction and moving forward with your life.