The first step to overcoming gambling harm is knowing the signs and symptoms. Read these real life stories from people who opened up about their experiences, received help and started to feel better.
Gambling is a pastime that involves risk and can lead to financial loss. However, it can also be a cause of psychological distress and social problems. It has been linked to substance abuse, family problems and even suicide.
While the majority of gamblers are not addicted to gambling, pathological gambling can be a serious problem that can lead to loss of employment, family and friends, strained relationships and legal troubles. It has been shown to be a significant contributing factor in mental illness and can affect both women and men. Symptoms of pathological gambling can include a lack of control over gambling activity, preoccupation with gambling and lying about it.
People with a history of depression or bipolar disorder may be at increased risk for problematic gambling. The brain chemical dopamine, which causes the “feel good” reaction when you win money, can trigger a dangerously addictive cycle in these individuals. People with a low threshold for reward can also become addicted to gambling. In addition, certain genes can impact how we process rewards and control impulses.
Many of the same factors that make people vulnerable to developing a gambling addiction—such as poor judgment, an inability to control emotions and distorted thinking—can contribute to the development of other types of addictions. In addition, some communities may have shared thoughts and values about gambling that can make it difficult for individuals to recognize when their actions are a problem.
Some of the warning signs that you may have a problem with gambling include:
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling. Decreased performance at work or school. Spending more time on gambling than on other activities. Borrowing or stealing money to gamble. Spending more and more of your income on gambling. Continuing to gamble when you have lost a significant amount of money (chasing your losses).
If you are concerned that you may be at risk for gambling harm, talk with a health care professional or call the Gamblers Anonymous helpline. There are many treatment options, including individual and group counseling, medication and self-help programs such as the 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s also important to build a support network. Consider joining a book club, taking a class, volunteering or finding a new hobby to spend your time. You can also find online and phone-based peer support groups.
