Gambling is a global, multibillion-dollar industry that involves wagering money or something else of value on an event with an uncertain outcome. It can be conducted with money, but is also possible to gamble with items of value such as marbles, Pogs (small discs) or trading cards (used in games like Magic: The Gathering). Gambling is not just a game of chance; there are a number of cognitive and behavioral risks associated with it, including the potential for addiction.
Unlike drugs, gambling does not require ingesting chemical substances, but it does trigger the brain’s dopamine response in a similar way. As a result, gambling can become a way to profit or escape from problems in life, and just as with any other addiction, the relief provided by gambling is short-lived and comes with a cost.
The most common type of gambling is placing a bet on an outcome that is determined by chance, such as a football match or scratchcard. The gambler makes a choice about what they want to bet on, such as a team or individual player and then matches this with ‘odds’, which determine how much the gambler could win if they are correct. The odds are calculated by mathematicians and based on previous results and statistics.
While the thrill and excitement of gambling can provide a temporary sense of happiness, many people are unable to control their behavior. For some, gambling becomes a way of life and can lead to serious financial, social and family issues. A person with a gambling disorder may engage in risky behaviors to finance their habit, including stealing or using illegal means to get the money they need to continue gambling. In addition, they will likely lie to friends and family members about their problem in order to conceal the extent of their involvement.
There is a growing role for primary care providers to evaluate their patients for gambling disorders. The DSM-5, the American Psychiatric Association’s official diagnostic guide for mental illnesses, lists 10 warning signs of compulsive gambling:
If you suspect that someone you know has a gambling disorder, it is important to speak up and encourage them to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are many options for help available, such as self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, therapy and support from loved ones. Speak up without judgment and offer to help in whatever way you can. It is also a good idea to avoid isolation, as this can make the situation worse. The earlier a person with a gambling disorder gets help, the more likely they are to be able to overcome it. In the meantime, try to distract yourself from your urges by focusing on other activities that are more productive or relaxing. For example, reading a book or watching a movie can be a great way to take your mind off your gambling habits. Try to avoid spending time in places where you are tempted to gamble, such as casinos and betting shops.