Gambling is placing something of value (typically money) at risk with the hope of winning a larger amount. It can take many forms, from lotteries to scratchcards, video poker, roulette, horse races, dice, keno and more. There are even games on mobile phones that involve a form of gambling. It’s no surprise that gambling is a billion-dollar industry, and it is growing even faster today.
While gambling may seem harmless, it can become a problem. Some people develop an addiction to it that interferes with their work, family and social life. It’s estimated that around two million Americans have a problem with gambling. The addiction can cause serious financial and emotional problems for the person suffering from it.
It’s hard to break a gambling habit, but it can be done. There are a number of ways to help overcome the problem, including therapy, medication and self-control techniques. In addition, there are a variety of support groups available to those who have a gambling addiction. These groups can offer valuable advice and encouragement from people who have successfully fought their gambling problem.
The first step in breaking a gambling habit is to recognise the problem. The second is to make a decision to quit. Once the decision is made, it’s important to follow through with it. This will not be easy, but it’s important to realise that your gambling is causing you harm and that you need to change things.
It is also important to make sure that you don’t gamble when you are depressed or upset. These are the times when a gambling problem is most likely to occur. It’s also important to be aware that you are more likely to lose if you are playing with other people’s money, such as friends and family.
In the past, psychiatric researchers have viewed pathological gambling as an impulse control disorder, along with kleptomania, pyromania and trichotillomania (hair pulling). But in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the APA has moved the condition into the Addictions section.
The most effective treatment for gambling addiction is to get professional help. Therapists can teach you how to identify and manage your triggers, and provide strategies for quitting gambling. They can also help you rebuild your relationships and finances. They can also advise you on how to set limits and avoid chasing losses. In addition, therapists can help you find alternative activities that can replace gambling in your life. They can also assist you in making a plan for recovery and finding a sponsor, an ex-gambler who has experience with the disease and can offer encouragement and support. Moreover, they can provide guidance on how to cope with a relapse.
