Gambling involves placing money or other items of value on the outcome of a game of chance or event with an element of risk. It may involve betting on sports games, playing video or online games, or even lottery-style scratch-off tickets and raffles. Gambling can become a problem when it becomes compulsive and interferes with daily living, including relationships, work, and other responsibilities.
In addition, gambling can lead to serious mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Those who suffer from these disorders are at higher risk for developing a gambling problem. People who have a family history of mood disorders and those who were abused as children or adolescents are also more likely to develop a gambling problem.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to addiction, as demonstrated by differences in brain regions involved in processing rewards and weighing risks. Other factors that can influence a person’s vulnerability to gambling include having a family history of problem gambling, certain medications, and an underactive brain reward system. The cultural beliefs and values of a person’s community can also influence their views about gambling activities and what constitutes a problem.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, it is important to seek help. It is possible to overcome a gambling problem with the support of family and friends, as well as professionals. Seeking treatment and participating in peer-support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous (a 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous), can be an effective way to break the cycle of compulsive gambling.