Gambling involves risking something of value on an event whose outcome depends on chance in the hope of winning a profit. It has been a part of every society since prerecorded history, and it is often incorporated into local customs and rites of passage. However, gambling can have serious adverse consequences and is considered a psychological disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. Understanding this disorder can help families and friends identify and respond to it.
A number of factors can lead to the development of gambling disorders, including genetic and environmental influences. Some studies have found that people who are from the same family or ethnic group tend to have a greater risk of developing gambling problems than those from other backgrounds. However, the field of gambling research is still very young and there are many unanswered questions.
Various underlying mood disorders can also trigger gambling behaviors and make them worse. Depression, stress and substance abuse can all increase gambling urges, while anxiety and bipolar disorder can cause manic episodes that may lead to excessive gambling. When a person is suffering from these mood disorders, they should seek medical treatment to help them manage their symptoms.
People who have a problem with gambling often do so in order to escape from boredom, worry, or trouble. They might gamble to celebrate good times and try to make up for losses. They might also hide money from a spouse or other family members in order to gamble. Other triggering situations can include being bored, seeing bills or other financial obligations, being in an argument or having disappointments.
Gambling disorders are characterized by an inability to control gambling behavior, which is often accompanied by a loss of self-control and increased tolerance and cravings for gambling. They may also experience withdrawal, which is a feeling of restlessness or irritability when trying to stop gambling. People with gambling disorders are more likely to have negative health outcomes, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, and they are also at higher risk for suicide.
Several treatments are available for people who have a gambling disorder, including counseling and medication. Counseling is designed to help the person change their thinking patterns and learn healthier coping skills. It can also address any underlying mood disorders that might be contributing to the gambling disorder. Medication can reduce the urges to gamble by blocking the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that is involved in reward and pleasure.
A key step in overcoming a gambling addiction is reducing the availability of money. This can be done by getting rid of credit cards, limiting access to cash and closing online betting accounts. Alternatively, someone with a gambling problem can ask to have their bank account managed by a trusted family member or friend. They can also seek out peer support, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition, they can find new recreational activities and hobbies to replace gambling.