Gambling involves placing bets with money or valuable objects to attempt to predict the results of games involving chance. Gambling is a widely practiced worldwide pastime with around $10 trillion wagered each year globally (includes illegal forms). Gambling takes place everywhere from casinos and racetracks to racetracks, online platforms and home with friends; most commonly associated with wagers on sports events but horse races and lotteries also make up part of gambling practices.
Gambling can cause financial, relationship and mental health issues for those addicted. But there are numerous resources available for those who may be suffering from gambling addiction; these can assist them with finding a therapist, support group and managing finances and credit as well as learning more about the risks and benefits of gambling, how to recognize an addiction problem as well as ways to find help.
Step one in breaking a gambling addiction is accepting that there is an issue; though this can be challenging when money has been lost and relationships affected. Although you may feel ashamed or alone with this challenge, others have experienced similar struggles but have managed to overcome them successfully.
Some individuals are genetically predisposed to engaging in thrill-seeking behavior and impulsivity, which makes quitting gambling even harder for them. Furthermore, some cultures consider gambling an acceptable pastime – making it harder for them to see it as a problem.
No matter the form of gambling you engage in, there are warning signs you should watch for. If someone close to you displays any of these symptoms it’s essential they get professional assistance right away.
Gambling alters your brain in many ways. Winning causes dopamine production to release and provide an instantaneous rush; losing releases cortisol which causes stress. Furthermore, as more gambling takes place your mind becomes conditioned to anticipate a reward; this can lead to compulsive gambling when your urges outweigh your control of them.
Gambling can be an enjoyable and thrilling activity, but always bears risks. While gambling may be fun and engaging, remembering the odds involved and taking chances without guarantees can help ensure responsible play and limiting your time spent gambling can prevent becoming addictive to it. Setting and sticking to a budget will also help.