Gambling is putting something of value, such as money, on the outcome of an event based solely on chance. This type of risk-taking has been around for millennia and is an important part of many cultures’ traditions. Gambling is also a popular activity amongst college and professional athletes, although betting on sports events is typically against the rules. Baseball player Pete Rose, for example, was banned from the game after accepting bets on games he played in. This rule is in place to protect the integrity of the game and the health and well-being of players.
Gambling may be a way to self-soothe unpleasant feelings, relieve boredom, or socialize, but there are healthier ways to do these things. Try exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques. If you are struggling to overcome compulsive gambling, seek treatment or therapy to help you manage your moods and learn healthy coping skills.
The most important step in overcoming gambling addiction is acknowledging that you have a problem. This can be difficult, especially if you’ve lost significant amounts of money and strained or even broken relationships as a result of your gambling. However, it’s essential to realize that you have a problem so you can take steps to get help and rebuild your life.
It’s important to understand how gambling works in order to recognize it when it happens. The most common form of gambling is betting on sports and horse races, but it’s also possible to gamble on poker, daily fantasy sports, or online casino games. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) includes 10 warning signs of problematic gambling, but the DSM-5 removed one of these warnings: criminal behavior.
When you gamble, your brain releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter that makes you excited. This chemical response can cause you to lose control and keep playing, even when it’s no longer fun or enjoyable. It’s important to know how gambling affects your brain so you can stop before it becomes a problem.
Identify triggers and develop a plan to avoid them. This could include having a “gambling day” once a week where you set aside time to enjoy gambling activities. You can also make a list of things that make you want to gamble and come up with alternatives, such as pursuing hobbies or visiting friends who don’t gamble.
Seek out peer support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also find individual therapists who are trained to help people with gambling problems. BetterHelp is an online therapy service that matches you with therapists who are experienced treating gambling addiction. Start by taking our free assessment, and you can be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Whether you need help with anxiety, depression, or relationships, we have a therapist for you.
