Gambling involves placing something of value on an event whose outcome is mostly based on chance with the intent of winning something else of value. It has been practiced in every society since prerecorded history and has been incorporated into many local customs and rites of passage. However, some people develop a gambling addiction that can have serious consequences for their health, family and career. In addition to causing physical and mental harm, gambling can lead to debt, bankruptcies and suicide.
Identifying problem gambling is difficult, and people often deny that their behavior is harmful. They may lie to friends and family members about their gambling, or hide money from them. Other signs of a problem include hiding gambling activity, spending more and more time on the activity and upping bets in an attempt to win back lost money. A person may also experience symptoms of depression or other mood disorders, which are frequently triggered by gambling and can worsen the addiction.
A gambling addiction is a complex condition, and treatment options are available. Medications can help control gambling urges, and behavioral therapy can teach the skills needed to overcome the disorder. Family and peer support groups can provide guidance and encouragement. People with a gambling addiction should also seek treatment for any underlying mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Problem gamblers often seek gambling as a way to escape from the stress and frustration of their daily lives. They may feel bored or lonely, or they might be trying to solve a personal problem, such as marital conflict or a financial crisis. The risk of losing large amounts of money can increase these feelings of stress and anxiety. The behavior can also affect the gambler’s social and work relationships. In extreme cases, pathological gambling can even cause bankruptcy and homelessness.
During the Great Depression, gambling became popular in America as people searched for ways to cope with their economic troubles. Many Americans also placed an inordinate emphasis on money, and business began to rely heavily on profits as their primary measure of success. These trends contributed to the rise of casinos and gambling in America, which grew into a huge industry that continues to flourish today.
If you want to stop gambling, try to eliminate triggers by avoiding friends who also gamble and refraining from drinking alcohol before you play. Taking the time to learn to manage negative emotions in healthy ways will also decrease your desire to gamble. If you have trouble stopping on your own, consider joining a gambling recovery group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program that is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Other strategies for overcoming a gambling addiction include volunteering, exercising and writing down things you’re grateful for. Research has shown that these positive activities can help replace unhealthy coping behaviors and promote recovery from gambling problems.