Gambling Addiction
Gambling is the wagering of something of value, such as money or possessions, on an event whose outcome is determined at least in part by chance. It is considered to be a form of recreational activity for some people and a source of excitement for others. However, some people develop gambling addiction and it can be harmful to their lives, relationships and careers. Fortunately, help is available.
In recent years, there has been a shift in understanding the nature of problem gambling. It is now recognised as an addiction akin to substance use, and it is often thought to have genetic or psychological predispositions. A number of factors contribute to the development of problem gambling, including a change in the way our brains send chemical messages, and the fact that many people start gambling as a way of relieving anxiety. Pathological gambling (PG) is a severe type of problem gambling that requires treatment.
The diagnosis of PG is based on an individual’s recurring maladaptive patterns of gambling behavior, which meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for pathological gambling. Typically, this behaviour begins in adolescence or young adulthood and may continue for several years, although symptoms can also develop later in life. Male pathological gamblers are more likely to report problems with strategic forms of gambling, such as card games and sports betting, whereas women tend to be more troubled by nonstrategic forms of gambling, such as bingo or slot machines.
There are various treatments for problem gambling, and each type is suitable for different types of individuals. These include family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Several new hybrid treatments are also being developed, but research is scarce and their effectiveness remains unclear. Many of these treatments are based on eclectic theoretic conceptualizations of the etiology of pathological gambling, and they can lead to inconsistent results.
Many people who develop a gambling problem can manage to stop, but others cannot. If you know someone who has a gambling problem, encourage them to seek help. While the first step can be difficult, there are effective treatments that can be used, and therapists who specialise in this area can provide support and advice.
Many people who have a problem with gambling are reluctant to admit they have a problem, especially if it has cost them money or strained their relationships. This can be exacerbated by the difficulty of finding a therapist who can help them. But it is important to remember that there are resources available, and that many people have overcome gambling addiction, even after years of losses and damaged relationships. This is a complex and long-term condition, but there is hope.
Gambling is the wagering of something of value, such as money or possessions, on an event whose outcome is determined at least in part by chance. It is considered to be a form of recreational activity for some people and a source of excitement for others. However, some people develop gambling addiction and it can…