Gambling Addiction

Gambling is the act of wagering money or other valuable items on events whose outcomes are based on chance and involve some element of uncertainty. Historically, the term has also been used to refer to games of chance in which skill can improve the chances of winning (Devereux, 1979).

Although there are many different gambling activities, all gamblers bet that something of value will be lost in return for a potential gain. For some people, the act of gambling is addictive and can result in serious financial or emotional problems. Some studies have suggested that people who have severe gambling problems may be able to recover with treatment.

Most gambling is done for entertainment and not as a source of income, but some people do use it to make money. Gambling is a popular pastime and a major international commercial activity, with legalized gambling markets exceeding US$335 billion in 2009.

While there are some people who are predisposed to developing a problem with gambling, most people who gamble do so responsibly. People who develop a gambling addiction often experience mood disorders, such as anxiety or depression, which can trigger or worsen their gambling behavior. People who are concerned that they may have a gambling problem should talk to a doctor or therapist for help.

A person who has a gambling addiction can often hide their symptoms from friends and family, but there are some warning signs to watch for. If a person starts to ignore important responsibilities, miss work or school, lie to people, or becomes restless or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling, they should seek treatment.

There are several types of gambling-related treatment and therapy programs, including residential treatment centers and outpatient rehabilitation services. Inpatient treatment centers are primarily for people who are unable to control their gambling behaviors without round-the-clock supervision. Other treatment options include group and individual counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family or marriage therapy.

While research is ongoing to determine whether or not pathological gambling should be classified as a mental disorder, the current understanding of the adverse effects of gambling has undergone significant change. This shift in thinking has been reflected and stimulated by the changes in terminology for substance abuse and mental illness that have taken place during the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (called DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association.