Gambling involves risking something of value (money, possessions or even life) for the chance to win a prize. It can be done in a range of places including casinos, racetracks and online. People gamble for many reasons, such as the adrenaline rush, to socialise or escape from worries or stress. However, when gambling becomes problematic, it can cause harm to your finances and your mental health. This can lead to addiction and serious problems with relationships. If you are concerned that your gambling is out of control, see a therapist to help.
The first step to overcoming your problem is admitting that you have one. It takes courage to face up to it, especially if you have lost money or strained or broken relationships as a result of your gambling. But, don’t be discouraged – you can recover and rebuild your life.
You can find treatment and support for gambling addiction in the UK, online and abroad. Treatment can include therapy, medication and support groups. Therapy can help you understand the underlying causes of your addiction and give you the skills to overcome it. It can also provide a safe place to talk openly with family and friends about your problems without fear of judgement or criticism.
Medications like antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines can be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of gambling addiction. This can be especially useful for people who struggle with depression, which can increase the risk of harmful gambling. There are also a number of self-help tips and tools available to help you manage your gambling addiction. These can include setting budgets, limiting access to credit cards, and keeping only a small amount of cash on you.
There is a strong link between gambling and mental health. People with depression are more at risk of gambling to try and feel better about themselves, or to distract themselves from feelings of anxiety. There is also a link between gambling and debt, which can make it harder to afford essentials like food, clothing and shelter. If you are struggling with debt, speak to StepChange for free, confidential advice.
The brain is wired to produce dopamine when it wins, which is a reward for the brain’s success. This response is normal, but can be dangerous if you are addicted to gambling and begin to lose. The resulting addiction can affect your emotions, relationships and work.
The DSM-5 nomenclature has highlighted the similarities between pathological gambling and substance abuse, but it is important to note that a number of factors may contribute to pathological gambling, such as recreational interest, diminished mathematical skills, impaired judgment, cognitive distortions and moral turpitude. There are also a number of treatments and services for gambling addiction, including group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, marital counselling, career and credit counseling, and self-help tips. These can all help you take steps towards recovery and regain control of your finances, health and wellbeing.