The term “gambling” covers any activity where you stake something of value – such as money or possessions – on an event that is unpredictable. The outcome of the event could be anything from winning a prize to losing your investment. Gambling can take place anywhere: in casinos, on television, on the Internet and even at sporting events.
Gambling is often seen as a vice, but it’s important to remember that gambling can also be a fun form of entertainment when it’s done in moderation. The problem comes when you start to lose control of your gambling and it starts to cause problems in your life.
It’s estimated that about 2.5 million U.S adults (1%) meet the diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder. However, many people who struggle with gambling have mild or moderate symptoms and don’t qualify for the diagnosis.
Those who have an addiction to gambling can have a range of symptoms including:
A craving for excitement or euphoria. Often this is triggered by the rush of winning or by the anticipation of winning. It may also be a response to boredom or anxiety.
Feeling the need to gamble secretively, perhaps telling lies to friends or family about how much you have won. This is because you may think they won’t understand or that you can surprise them with a big win.
Being compelled to gamble more and more, despite mounting losses. This is called chasing your losses and it’s a sign that you have a problem with gambling. The best way to stop chasing your losses is to avoid gambling altogether or only gamble with money that you can afford to lose.
Gambling can be an expensive hobby and it’s easy to lose track of how much you spend. It’s important to set a budget for yourself and stick to it. If you’re worried about your gambling habits, talk to a therapist about it. BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist who can help you manage your gambling addiction and other issues like depression, stress, or relationships.
A good tip is to find a peer support group. The Gamblers Anonymous program is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous and offers advice and support from other people who have overcome their addictions. There are also online forums where you can discuss your experiences with other gamblers and share tips on how to stay in control of your gambling.