Dealing With Gambling Disorders
Gambling is an activity where individuals risk something of value, like money or possessions, on the outcome of a game or contest of chance. It can be a fun and entertaining pastime, but it can also have negative effects on health, relationships, work or study, and finances. Gambling is often linked to other forms of addiction, including substance abuse, depression and anxiety.
Most people enjoy gambling in moderation, but for a small group of individuals, it can become a serious problem. This is referred to as gambling disorder, which is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a persistent, compulsive involvement with gambling that results in significant distress or impairment.
Symptoms of gambling disorder include:
(1) the inability to control the amount of time and money spent on gambling; (2) lying to family members, friends, or a therapist about the extent of the involvement with gambling; (3) frequent or continuous losses that exceed the gambler’s income; (4) the inability to stop gambling even when confronted by clear evidence of distress or impairment; (5) engaging in illegal acts, such as theft, embezzlement, forgery, or fraud, to finance gambling; and (6) jeopardizing or losing a significant relationship, job, education, or career opportunity because of gambling.
The first step in addressing gambling problems is to seek help for any underlying mood disorders. These can trigger or worsen gambling behavior, and even after the person stops gambling, they may continue to experience depression, anxiety, or stress.
Another way to address gambling is to create new activities that are rewarding and fulfilling. This can be done by joining a book club, sports team, or educational class, volunteering for a worthy cause, or getting involved in your community. You can also try doing more physical activities, such as taking a walk, or trying a new hobby.
Lastly, it is important to set boundaries regarding financial responsibility. A person who has a gambling problem should not be allowed to use credit cards, have someone else manage their money, or have access to online betting accounts. In addition, it is recommended that the person who has a gambling problem attend therapy or a support group for this condition. The goal of these groups is to help the individual develop a strong coping skillset and improve their ability to resist impulsive gambling behaviors. This will help them cope with negative consequences of their gambling, such as debt and homelessness. Often, these organizations offer services for families of the person with the gambling disorder, as well.
Gambling is an activity where individuals risk something of value, like money or possessions, on the outcome of a game or contest of chance. It can be a fun and entertaining pastime, but it can also have negative effects on health, relationships, work or study, and finances. Gambling is often linked to other forms of…