Gambling is an activity in which individuals place wagers on the outcome of events that have a certain degree of randomness. The risk and prize involved in gambling can be large, but there are also many other side benefits of the practice, including socialization, mental development, and skill improvement. However, when the activity is not taken in moderation, it can cause a variety of negative effects.
Some of the most common symptoms of gambling addiction include secretive behavior, lying, and a lack of control over spending. People with an addictive gambling habit often gamble when they are feeling distressed, such as after a stressful day at work or following an argument with their spouse. Additionally, they may frequently lose money and up their bets in a desperate attempt to win back the lost money.
Researchers have found that the brain responds differently to gambling compared to other activities. A study led by Potenza showed that subjects who were shown images of positive or negative events had the same neurological response, but when subjects were shown images of gambling, their brains lit up. Potenza explains that this indicates that gambling is psychologically more rewarding than other activities, and the brain is more sensitive to its rewards.
Another way that gambling affects the brain is by triggering feelings of euphoria and excitement. The reason behind this is that when someone wins, their brain releases dopamine, a chemical that causes feelings of happiness and excitement. Similarly, when a person experiences near misses in gambling, they feel a similar sensation of euphoria and excitement as if they had won.
People with a gambling addiction are more likely to experience financial difficulties than people without the condition. They may spend more than they can afford, and they might miss important deadlines or meetings at work. Additionally, they are more likely to commit illegal activities such as theft and fraud in order to fund their habit. As a result, they can be at risk of losing their job or even their home.
It is possible to overcome a gambling addiction with help from professionals. Those who have a problem with gambling should seek professional treatment as soon as they notice any of the warning signs of the condition. To prevent the temptation to gamble, a person should get rid of credit cards, make their bank take over payments for them, and close online betting accounts. In addition, they should try to spend more time with friends who don’t gamble and learn to relieve unpleasant emotions in healthier ways. If you need help dealing with an addiction, BetterHelp can match you with licensed, accredited therapists who specialize in various issues. To begin, simply complete a short assessment, and you can be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours.
