Causes of Problematic Gambling
Gambling is a risky activity in which people stake something of value, often money, on an event that involves a substantial element of chance. It may involve betting on a sporting event, a game of chance, a lottery, scratchcards, fruit machines, cards, dice, or even a race. It can be done in many different places and by any number of people, from playing card games with friends in their homes to placing bets on horse races or football matches at work or with colleagues.
While the rules of gambling vary, there are several common factors that all gamblers share: a decision to participate in a wager, a risk to lose something of value, and a prize. The decisions and risks involved in gambling can have a significant impact on personal, family, and financial life. People who become addicted to gambling have a higher suicide risk than those who do not.
Understanding the causes of problematic gambling can help people recognize warning signs and seek treatment before things get out of control. Problematic gambling affects the brain in similar ways as drug addiction, and can cause significant social, family, and economic harm. Some of the most common reasons people gamble are to escape from unpleasant feelings, to make money, or to meet other needs.
When people gamble, their brains are stimulated by the release of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of reward and pleasure. This dopamine response can make people feel excited when they win, but it also occurs when they lose. This can contribute to compulsive gambling, as it makes the person want to keep gambling, even if it is causing them harm.
Most individuals engage in some form of gambling for entertainment and profit, but a small group of people become addicted to the activity, resulting in serious negative personal, family, and financial effects. These people are described as compulsive gamblers and can be diagnosed with a psychological disorder.
There are many steps to overcome a gambling problem, including therapy and self-help strategies. Intensive residential and inpatient treatments are available for those who require more support and care.
Talking about your gambling problem with a trusted friend or family member can be helpful. You can also reduce financial risk factors by getting rid of credit cards, having someone else be in charge of your finances, closing online betting accounts, and carrying only a small amount of cash with you when you go out. Consider finding healthier and more effective ways to relieve unpleasant emotions or boredom, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, taking up new hobbies, or practicing relaxation techniques. Seek therapy for underlying mood disorders such as depression, stress, or anxiety, which can trigger or make problems with gambling worse. For some, the only way to get relief from gambling is to quit altogether. However, this is not always easy and some may find that they need to start over again.