Gambling is an activity where people put something of value at risk on an event with an element of chance, in which they hope to win a substantial prize. This can be done in a variety of ways, from betting on sports events to scratchcards to lottery tickets and online games. Although most people gamble without any problems, some develop an addiction. For some, the consequences of gambling can be devastating and may even lead to suicide.
Problem gambling (PG) can be distinguished from substance use disorders (SUDs), though there are many similarities. For example, both involve the manipulation of reward and punishment circuits in the brain. Similarly, both PG and SUDs can cause significant distress and impairment in multiple areas of life. Moreover, both have been found to be associated with suicidal ideation.
The key to understanding what happens when someone becomes a compulsive gambler is understanding the underlying motivations for the behavior. Several factors are involved in this process, including altered emotional states and the experience of a ‘high’ or ‘low’ feeling while gambling. The risk of developing a gambling disorder increases with age, and young adults are particularly susceptible. Men are more likely to develop a gambling disorder than women. This is due in part to the fact that males’ brains mature at a faster rate than females’, meaning they are less able to control their impulses.
In addition, many adolescent and adult gamblers are attracted to the social and psychological rewards of gambling. This is often combined with poor money management skills, leading to excessive spending and debt. As a result, those who are addicted to gambling often have high levels of stress and anxiety. This can trigger a self-defeating cycle, where people feel they have to gamble to overcome these negative emotions, and in turn, continue to spend more and more until they are unable to keep up with their bills.
Traditionally, psychologists have categorized a person’s gambling behavior as pathological based on 10 warning signs. These were later narrowed down to three clusters or dimensions: damage or disruption, loss of control and dependence. However, the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which informs psychologists, has removed one of these warning signs, arguing that it is better accounted for by a manic episode.
The good news is that there are many ways to reduce the likelihood of developing a gambling disorder. For example, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and to exercise regularly. It is also helpful to speak with a trained professional about local referral resources for problem gambling support and intensive treatment programs. Finally, it is vital to set boundaries in managing money and review credit card and bank statements. It is also important to seek support from family and friends. In addition, framing the problem as a health issue can help reduce resistance to seeking help. In addition to these strategies, people with a gambling problem can seek support from Gamblers Anonymous and other peer support groups.