Gambling involves placing a bet on something of value that could result in either a loss or a gain. This could include games like slot machines, roulette, blackjack and poker that are played in casinos or online, sports events such as horse racing and football, and even lotteries. People who gamble are called gamblers and the money they place is known as their stake. The act of gambling has been around for thousands of years and is considered to be an activity with a high degree of risk.
People who suffer from a gambling problem have an inability to control their impulses. They may lose a significant amount of money and may experience financial problems and family distress as a result. In addition, they may develop a range of psychosomatic symptoms including headaches, muscle aches and stomach upsets. Other negative effects include a reduction in social activities, the deterioration of relationships and an increase in crime. It is estimated that more than two million Americans have a gambling problem. In many cases the problems caused by gambling can be overcome. The first step is to recognise that there is a problem and seek help.
Gambling is most common among young and middle-aged adults, although it can occur in any age group. It is also more prevalent in men than in women. Certain factors may increase the chances of developing a gambling addiction, such as having a family member with a gambling problem, being under stress or depression, having an addictive personality type or experiencing depression during childhood or adolescence.
There is a wide range of treatment options for people with gambling disorders, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and pharmacological treatments such as antidepressants. CBT addresses irrational beliefs and habits that lead to gambling addiction, such as believing you are more likely to win if you play certain games, following rituals and thinking you can recoup losses by gambling more. Pharmacological treatments may reduce the urge to gamble by suppressing the release of certain brain chemicals.
Other important steps in overcoming a gambling addiction include seeking family and relationship counselling, and credit counseling. These services can help you work through the specific issues that have arisen as a result of your gambling and rebuild your life.
If you find it difficult to control your urges, try to only gamble with money that you can afford to lose and balance your gambling activities with other interests. It is also important to set money and time limits in advance, and stick to them. Never chase your losses; the more you try to recoup your losses, the more you will likely lose. Finally, avoid gambling when you are depressed or stressed.