Gambling is the wagering of something of value, with consciousness of risk and hope of gain, on an event with uncertain outcome. It usually involves a game of chance or skill, and instances of strategy are discounted.
Some individuals develop an addiction to gambling that has a negative impact on their lives, family and career. They may be secretive about their behavior and lie to others. They may even try to get money back by increasing their bets in a desperate attempt to recover lost funds. They are unable to control their spending or stop the behavior despite serious consequences.
Problem gamblers often feel a rush of excitement when they win, but they also experience this sensation when they lose. This is because the brain releases dopamine when you win or lose, regardless of whether it’s a small amount or a large sum. This response is similar to the dopamine release caused by drugs and is one of the reasons pathological gambling was recently added to the psychiatric diagnostic manual, the DSM-V.
It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that you may have a gambling problem. Some of the warning signs include feeling like you must gamble to have fun, becoming secretive about your behavior, lying to friends and family about how much you’ve won, and feeling compelled to keep playing in the hopes of winning more. You may also feel the urge to gamble when you’re bored, tired, or stressed out. There are healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and taking up new hobbies.
If you’re concerned about a gambling problem, it’s important to talk to someone about it. You can find a counselor or support group in your area by calling the National Council on Problem Gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700. You can also speak to your physician or a mental health professional. They can refer you to local resources for help, including counseling and intensive treatment programs.
If you’re trying to quit gambling, set financial boundaries and take control of your money. Don’t use credit cards, make your bank pay bills for you, close online betting accounts, and only carry a small amount of cash with you. You can also seek help from a peer support group. Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step program that’s modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and it can be very helpful to have the support of other former gamblers who know how difficult it is to quit. There are many other peer support groups, too. Some of them are online, and some meet in person. It’s also important to strengthen your support network, so reach out to friends and family. You can also join a community organization, enroll in an educational class, or volunteer for a worthy cause. It’s a tough battle to overcome an addiction, but it’s possible with the right tools and support. Good luck!