Gambling Disorder – What is It?

Whether it’s buying a lottery ticket, putting down money on an NFL game or tossing a coin into the air, gambling involves risk. It can also lead to financial problems, social isolation and other mental health issues. Fortunately, treatment is available. The most effective treatments for gambling disorder are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy and family therapy. Other options include marriage, career and credit counseling, as well as self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.

Traditionally, the term gambling refers to the betting or staking of something of value with conscious risk and hope of gain on an event whose outcome is determined at least partly by chance. The most common forms of gambling include casino games like baccarat, blackjack and roulette; card and dice games such as poker, rummy and keno; betting on horse or greyhound races, football accumulators and other sporting events; and state-organized lotteries. In addition, many people engage in speculative gambling, such as investing in business or stock markets.

The problem of gambling has become more widespread as technology makes it easier to do so. It’s now possible to gamble on a computer or mobile phone, and online casinos make it easy to play for real money from anywhere in the world. In the US, sports betting has become legal in 37 states and the District of Columbia, and online gaming is increasing in popularity.

In addition to its direct effects on the brain, research has shown that people who have a gambling addiction are more likely to be depressed, anxious or suicidal. The addiction can also have a negative effect on the relationships and finances of those around them. It is estimated that up to 5% of young people, and a greater proportion of men than women, develop a gambling disorder. It is believed that a range of factors contributes to this, including genetic predisposition, trauma and social inequality.

While some people can manage their gambling problem on their own, most will require help. Those who have a family history of gambling disorder are more likely to suffer from the condition, and symptoms may appear during adolescence or early adulthood. Other risk factors include depression, anxiety or substance abuse, which can trigger or be made worse by compulsive gambling.

It is important to seek help if you or someone you know has a gambling addiction. Treatment includes psychotherapy, which can help you identify underlying mood disorders that may be contributing to the addiction and teach you coping strategies. Behavioral therapy can teach you skills to reduce your urges and manage cravings, and family therapy can help you repair your relationships with those close to you. You can also consider joining a support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Getting active in other activities and spending time with supportive friends are also helpful. Some research has shown that physical activity can decrease the desire to gamble. Aside from these steps, it is recommended that you get rid of your credit cards and have someone else manage your finances, close your online gambling accounts and keep only a small amount of cash on hand.