How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction
Gambling involves risking something of value on an event that is determined at least in part by chance. The objective is to win a prize. A prize could be money, goods, or services. Almost everyone has gambled at some point, although many people are confused about what gambling is. The word gamble is often used to describe activities that involve a significant amount of skill, but it can also be applied to games in which the outcome is determined by chance alone.
There are many types of gambling, including card games, fruit machines, slot machines, bingo, lottery and sports betting. Some of these are considered games of pure chance, while others require an element of skill, such as a card game in which knowledge of strategies can increase the chances of winning, or horse race betting in which an understanding of horses and jockeys can help to predict the outcome of a race. Many governments regulate, tax or ban gambling. The regulated gambling industry is a major source of revenue for many governments.
A number of cognitive and motivational factors can distort a person’s perception of odds and influence their preferences for gambling. These include a tendency to seek sensation and novelty, a desire to achieve rapid and significant gains, a negative emotional state (such as depression or anxiety), and an impaired ability to control impulses. Some studies suggest that a combination of these factors is required for someone to develop a gambling problem.
Those who develop problems with gambling often feel powerless to change their behavior. In addition, their lives become chaotic as they are consumed by their addiction. Family members and friends suffer, too, as their relationships are strained and their financial situation becomes unstable. It is important to recognize the symptoms of gambling addiction, so that a person can get help.
It is possible to overcome a gambling addiction, but it takes commitment and willpower. Changing one’s lifestyle and finding new sources of enjoyment are essential. It is also important to set boundaries. For example, a person should never gamble with more money than he or she is willing to lose. In addition, a person should never play with cash — always use chips. It is also important to avoid alcohol and other drugs while gambling.
Another way to help battle a gambling addiction is to strengthen one’s support network. Consider joining a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. It is also important to stay away from places where gambling is prevalent, such as casinos and sporting events. It is also recommended to seek therapy if needed, such as family or marriage counseling, career or credit counseling. A therapist can help address the specific issues that are causing problems in a person’s life and create a plan for recovery.
