Gambling Disorders

Gambling involves risking something of value on an event whose outcome is determined by chance. The activity has many forms, including pari-mutuels (horse and dog tracks, off-track betting parlors and jai alai), lotteries, casinos (slot machines and table games), sports betting and bookmaking. In some cases, gambling involves the use of materials that have value but are not money, such as marbles and collectible game pieces (pogs and Magic: The Gathering).

Gambling is a popular social activity that may be enjoyable for most people who participate in it. But a small group of people develop problematic gambling behaviors that affect their lives, families and relationships. Some of these individuals have what is called gambling disorder, or compulsive gambling. They continue to gamble even though it has serious personal, family, and financial consequences for them.

Problem gambling is a complex issue, and there are a variety of causes. A person’s environment, coping styles, and beliefs and values all influence their vulnerability to harmful gambling. Coexisting mental health conditions can also make people more susceptible to this type of behavior. For example, a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety can lead to a person trying to relieve symptoms by gambling. In addition, a psychological condition such as the Gambler’s Fallacy — the incorrect belief that because an event has happened more often than usual in the past, it is less likely to happen again — can make people more likely to bet large amounts of money.

In terms of treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy is the most common and effective option. A therapist can teach you skills to help you identify and manage triggers that lead to a gambling binge. They can also help you find healthy coping strategies and replace unhealthy ones. Other types of psychotherapy include group therapy, which can be a powerful source of motivation and moral support, as well as family therapy, which can help you educate your loved ones about the disorder and create a safer home environment.

While the nomenclature surrounding gambling and gambling disorders is a challenge, some clear pathways have been identified. For example, a person may become vulnerable to gambling problems because of poor mathematical skills, impulsivity, or a history of trauma and abuse. Other factors that contribute to gambling disorders include coexisting mental illness, recreational drug use and a lack of social support.

The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) recognizes pathological gambling as a behavioral addiction. In some ways, it is similar to substance abuse because it can change your brain chemistry and have features of withdrawal and tolerance. However, DSM-5 does not currently consider gambling disorder to be a subtype of an existing disorder, such as an eating or mood disorder. This is a limitation that needs to be addressed.