Gambling is the act of risking money or anything else of value on an event involving chance, such as a football match, scratchcard or fruit machine. If you predict the outcome correctly, you win money. However, if you lose, you forfeit the amount you bet. Some people develop an addiction to gambling, which can cause health and financial problems, damage relationships and ruin careers. It can also lead to suicide.
The first step to getting help is admitting that you have a problem. This is often difficult, especially if you have lost significant amounts of money or have strained or broken relationships as a result of your gambling. Counseling can help you work through these issues and rebuild your life. BetterHelp’s online therapy service can connect you with therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and relationships, which are often co-occurring with gambling disorders.
Research suggests that some people are more vulnerable to gambling problems than others. These include young people and men, who tend to gamble more than women. Vulnerability is also higher in people with lower incomes, who may have more to lose and fewer resources to draw on. Some people may be predisposed to gambling addiction through their genes, and studies suggest that certain brain regions can influence impulsivity and risk-taking.
Recovering from gambling is possible, but it can be challenging because it’s easy to pick up the habit again. Some of the best strategies for staying in recovery are to surround yourself with supportive friends and family, avoid tempting environments and websites, and find healthier things to do with your time.