Gambling is betting something of value on an event whose outcome is determined by chance with the hope that you will win. It includes putting money on sports events, bingo games, scratchcards, and other activities. It does not include business transactions based on risk, such as buying insurance or stock. It also does not include the purchase of lottery tickets.
Research on gambling and its effects can be complicated, especially because of the difficulties of defining what constitutes “gambling.” Researchers use longitudinal designs, which involve following participants over time, to study their behavior. This method allows them to identify and analyze factors that moderate and exacerbate an individual’s participation in gambling. It also helps them infer causality.
The psychiatric community has historically categorized pathological gambling as a form of impulse control disorder, a fuzzy category that included other conditions like kleptomania (stealing), pyromania (setting things on fire), and trichotillomania (hair-pulling). But in May of this year, the American Psychiatric Association officially moved pathological gambling to the Addictions chapter of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
Some people gamble as a way to self-soothe unpleasant feelings, or as a form of recreation. But there are healthier ways to manage moods, unwind, and socialize. These may include exercise, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and learning relaxation techniques.
Problem gambling is often accompanied by other behaviors, such as drinking too much or spending too much time online. It can also impact family relationships and lead to debt. Those who are struggling with these issues should seek professional help to break the cycle.
Many states run lotteries or other forms of gambling to raise revenue for government operations. Some spend the revenue on specific programs, such as education, while others allow it to be spent more broadly on state operations. This can create morally challenging situations, such as using gambling revenue to fund programs that might otherwise not be supported with other sources of income.
While there are no medications currently available to treat gambling disorders, psychotherapy can be helpful. Psychotherapy involves one-on-one sessions with a licensed mental health professional who teaches patients skills to identify and change unhealthy thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It can be particularly useful for those struggling with co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
The first step to overcoming a gambling addiction is admitting that you have a problem. This can be difficult, especially if you have lost money or strained your relationships due to gambling. But it is possible to break the habit and rebuild your life. Seek help from a therapist who can teach you strategies for managing your mood and reducing your time spent gambling. This can be done face-to-face or online, depending on your preferences. In fact, online therapy is growing in popularity as a way to overcome problems with gambling. In just 48 hours, you can be matched with a professional, licensed, and vetted therapist through our telehealth platform.