Gambling Disorder
Gambling involves wagering something of value (typically money) on an event with an element of chance. Events can include games of chance such as bingo, slot machines, video-draw poker, fruit machines and two-up, cards, dice, baccarat, roulette, horse racing, dog races, sports events, and lotteries. The gambler hopes to win a prize that is worth more than the amount risked. Whether a gambler wins or loses, he or she has the potential to experience negative emotional and social consequences.
The most common form of gambling is a lottery. In the United States, federal and state laws regulate lotteries. Congress also uses its power under the Commerce Clause to ban certain forms of gambling and regulate interstate and international relations involving gambling. In addition, the federal government imposes restrictions on foreign casinos and restricts the operations of Native American tribal nations.
Despite the fact that many people engage in gambling without experiencing any significant problems, the behavior can be addictive. It is considered a problem when a person experiences negative social and/or financial effects that interfere with daily functioning and a lack of control over gambling activities.
Some signs of a gambling problem are: (1) lying to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement in gambling; (2) making excuses for not attending work, school, or other important activities to gamble; (3) betting more money than is available, attempting to “chase” losses, or returning to gamble after a loss to try to make up for lost funds (gambling addiction); (4) spending more time at gambling venues or on gambling-related websites than is reasonable; and (5) relying on loans, credit cards, or other sources of income to fund gambling.
Treatment for gambling disorder is similar to treatment for substance use disorders, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and a 12-step recovery program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Behavioral therapy can teach gamblers to resist impulses and learn to recognize triggers that prompt them to bet. For example, a gambler may be prompted to bet after seeing a football game on television or hearing about the success of a friend who has broken the gambling habit.
If you’re struggling with a gambling disorder, surround yourself with healthy people and avoid tempting environments and websites. Find other ways to relieve unpleasant feelings and boredom, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques. You can also strengthen your support network by joining a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous. This can help you stay accountable and find new, healthier activities to replace gambling in your life. For instance, you can join a book club, sports team, or community volunteer project. You can even find a peer sponsor, who is a former problem gambler, to offer guidance and support.
Gambling involves wagering something of value (typically money) on an event with an element of chance. Events can include games of chance such as bingo, slot machines, video-draw poker, fruit machines and two-up, cards, dice, baccarat, roulette, horse racing, dog races, sports events, and lotteries. The gambler hopes to win a prize that is worth…