Gambling involves placing something of value at stake on an event whose outcome depends on chance, such as rolling dice or the outcome of horse races. Gambling also encompasses card games or other forms of skill games with consideration, risk, and prize in mind; gambling has long been part of human culture but was considered immoral and illegal until relatively recently; nowadays it is widely available and accepted.
Gambling can provide entertainment, financial gain and relief from everyday stresses – but once it becomes an addiction it can no longer provide these advantages and cause irreparable damage to an individual and his or her loved ones.
While gambling activities come in various forms, the most prevalent are lotteries, casino games (e.g. poker and blackjack), sports betting, and online gambling – particularly online gambling as it allows access worldwide from the comfort of one’s own home. In the United States alone there are over 3,000 state-regulated casinos, nearly 200 tribal gaming establishments, in addition to numerous commercial gaming operations.
Gambling was long seen as an immoral and illegal activity that promoted criminality, prompting many governments to outlaw it; but by the latter half of the 20th century attitudes softened and laws were relaxed accordingly.
Understanding what drives gambling addiction is key for providing assistance to loved ones struggling. Understanding these factors makes finding solutions and encouraging positive change easier, thereby supporting and helping your loved one’s wellbeing.
Individuals experiencing gambling problems may exhibit various symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These signs could be physical or psychological and affect people of all ages; thus it’s vital that treatment be sought as soon as possible.
Gambling addiction treatment comes in various forms, from inpatient and residential programs, family therapy, and credit counseling services to individual therapy sessions and credit counseling services. Gamblers Anonymous provides an important support network, with 12 steps similar to Alcoholics Anonymous that helps individuals cope with their gambling addiction and build support networks. These groups offer individuals a safe place for learning how to manage it and creating supportive networks of peers who understand. As well, these resources can provide invaluable information on where to access certified gambling counselors or intensive treatment programs in your area. Lastly, setting boundaries around managing money, taking control of family finances, reviewing bank and credit card statements as well as setting financial boundaries can all be effective ways of keeping gambling from financing itself via loans or lines of credit.