Gambling involves risking money or something of value on an event involving chance – like betting on a football match or playing a scratchcard. If you guess correctly, you win. If you lose, you lose the money you gambled with. It’s a common activity and some people find it hard to stop. If you have a problem with gambling, or think someone close to you does, there are things you can do to help.
Treatment for gambling disorder aims to change the way you respond to gambling. It’s important to recognise the problem early on, as it can develop into a serious mental health condition. Therapy can include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, group therapy and family therapy.
Psychotherapy helps you understand your past behaviour and how it influences your current thinking. It can also help you build new coping skills and develop more healthy relationships. In some cases, medication may be used to treat co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Gambling is often a way to escape from daily life and experience a rush of dopamine. This can become dangerous, especially when losses are mounting. A gambling addiction is about more than just greed, however – it can be used to meet basic human needs such as social connection and status.
You can try to prevent a gambling addiction by setting boundaries around your gambling. Avoid betting while drunk, and give priority to work, studies and appointments with friends and family. It’s also important not to be tempted by ads, promotions or bonuses. And don’t use credit cards to fund your gambling.