Gambling is the betting or staking of something of value with conscious risk and hope of gain, on an uncertain event or outcome. It can be done in various ways including casino games (slot machines, table games, card games and sports gambling) or via the lottery, horse and greyhound races, football accumulators and other sporting events as well as business ventures or insurance policies. It can also be a form of speculative trading on the financial markets.
People who have a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety may be at an increased risk of developing a gambling addiction. They might gamble to distract themselves from their emotions or to relieve the stress they are experiencing. They might also become addicted to gambling as a way of trying to feel better about themselves or to boost their self-esteem if they are feeling low.
Problem gambling can cause many negative psychological, physical and social consequences. It is classed as an impulse control disorder in the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
It can have a direct effect on someone’s emotional and mental health, leading to depressive episodes and an increased risk of suicide. In addition, it can lead to financial difficulties such as credit card debt, mortgage arrears or overdrafts. In extreme cases, it can also cause a person to lose their home or other assets.
There are many other indirect impacts of gambling, such as family breakdowns and broken relationships. These problems can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Often, individuals who have a gambling addiction will withdraw from friends and family because they spend so much time at the casino or online. This can create an atmosphere of tension and resentment that is very difficult to recover from.
A person’s behaviour can be affected by their emotional and mental state and this may affect their work, school or other activities. They may start to lie or break promises in order to make up for the amount of time they spend gambling. This can affect their reputation in the workplace and in other areas of their life and can lead to further losses in the long run.
The biggest challenge is accepting that a gambling addiction is present. It takes a great deal of strength and courage to acknowledge that you have a problem, especially if it has cost you money and caused damage to your personal or professional relationships. A good therapist can help you to address the underlying issues that are contributing to your gambling habits. Fill out a short questionnaire to get matched with a professional, licensed and vetted therapist. BetterHelp is an approved provider of therapy services by the California Department of Mental Health and can provide you with a comprehensive gambling assessment and a tailored treatment plan. Click here to get started.