Gambling is a game of chance where the participants stake something of value for the possibility of winning a prize. The act of gambling may be seen at casinos, racetracks, church halls and even on the Internet. It is a form of risk taking and a violation of social mores. It is not considered to be a mental disorder, but some individuals may have trouble controlling their urges and find it difficult to stop. These individuals might benefit from inpatient or residential treatment and rehabilitation programs, where round-the-clock support is available.
It is possible to develop a problem with gambling at any age and from any walk of life. However, it is more common in men and those who have a history of depression or anxiety. It may also be triggered by stressful situations in their lives, such as the death of a loved one or the loss of a job.
Those who have a gambling problem often find it difficult to recognise the behaviour and will attempt to cover up their activities by lying to friends and family. They will also hide credit card records and online betting activity. Some people are unable to stop gambling, even with the help of therapy or other treatments and may require psychiatric care to help them control their addiction.
People with a gambling addiction will often have trouble coping with negative feelings, and turn to gambling as a way of escaping or numbing their emotions. They may feel stressed, anxious or guilty about their gambling and may also be short tempered and easily annoyed. They will probably spend more and more time gambling and start to lose money. They will often gamble with money that they could afford to save or pay bills with, and they will try to make up for their losses by chasing them.
Gambling is a fun pastime for many people and does not have to cause any harm, but it is important to recognise that there is a line between gambling and problem gambling. Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not an income-generating activity. It is also important to avoid gambling with money that you need to pay your rent and bills, or on credit cards. It is helpful to set a time limit for how long you want to gamble and to leave when you reach this point, whether you are losing or winning.
It is also a good idea to find other ways to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends and family or getting non-judgemental help and advice from the GamCare helpline. Finally, it is important to strengthen your support network and to join a peer support group. There are a number of these organisations, including Gamlers Anonymous, which is based on the twelve-step recovery model used by Alcoholics Anonymous. Some of these groups provide individual, group and telephone therapy as well as financial support and information. Others offer educational programmes, such as debt management.
