Gambling involves betting something of value, usually money, on a random event where the outcome is unknown. Some forms of gambling include sports betting, lotteries, poker, blackjack, roulette, video-draw and slot machines, bingo and pull-tab games. People may gamble for fun, to socialize with friends, or even to get a thrill. Gambling problems can strain relationships and interfere with work, cause health problems and lead to financial disaster, including running up huge debts or even homelessness. People of all ages, backgrounds and occupations can develop problem gambling.
Some people develop a serious addiction to gambling, which is known as pathological gambling. This type of gambling is different from recreational or social gambling, in that the person feels a need to continue to gamble even after experiencing significant adverse consequences. It is a type of impulse control disorder that affects the ability to delay gratification, resulting in continued losses despite negative outcomes. In addition, people with pathological gambling have difficulty controlling their emotions and thoughts.
People with a pathological gambling disorder often feel the need to hide their gambling from family and friends, or lie about their gambling activities. They might also feel the urge to gamble when they are bored, lonely or unhappy, and find that gambling relieves these feelings temporarily. To help overcome a gambling disorder, people can strengthen their support networks and engage in healthy self-care. They can practice relaxation techniques, exercise, spend time with friends who do not gamble, take up a new hobby or volunteer. They can also seek help from peer support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous.
