Gambling is a risky activity in which a person puts something of value, such as money, on an event with a random outcome. There are several types of gambling: sports betting, scratch tickets, lottery tickets, online poker, and DIY investing. While the majority of people gamble for recreational reasons, some develop an addiction that can cause severe social and financial problems. Pathological gambling is considered a serious disorder, and it is increasingly being evaluated within primary care settings.
People who suffer from gambling disorders have difficulty stopping their behavior and may continue to gamble even when they lose significant amounts of money. In addition, they are often secretive about their gambling and lie to others about their activities. They often try to regain their lost funds by increasing the amount they gamble. The underlying cause of gambling problems is usually depression or another mood disorder, which can make it harder to stop gambling.
Although it is possible to become addicted to any type of gambling, the most common are sports betting, poker, and horse racing. The first step in overcoming a gambling addiction is admitting that there is a problem. Then, a therapist can help a person learn to manage their emotions and break the compulsion to gamble. The therapist can also teach the person coping strategies and ways to improve their finances.
In many cases, a therapist will recommend a support group for the person with a gambling disorder. These groups are modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous and can provide a support system for someone who has lost control of their life to gambling. The therapist can also suggest other healthy ways to cope, such as exercise, yoga, and meditation.
Aside from a therapist, the most important step is finding a way to replace the compulsive gambling with other healthier activities. This may include finding a new hobby, like taking an art class or joining a book club. It is also a good idea to spend more time with family and friends. This will help to rebuild relationships that have been damaged by gambling.
It is also helpful for a loved one to seek therapy for any underlying mood disorders that are contributing to the gambling behavior. For example, depression, anxiety, and stress can all lead to a gambling addiction and make it more difficult to stop. If a loved one is struggling with a gambling addiction, BetterHelp can connect them with licensed, accredited therapists who specialize in treating mood disorders. Take our assessment and get matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. BetterHelp is a fast, affordable, and easy way to get the help you need.