If you’re a loved one of someone with gambling disorder, it’s important to speak up sooner rather than later. The earlier a person receives treatment, the more likely they are to overcome their problem. Ideally, they will receive help from a mental health professional or Gamblers Anonymous.
When people gamble, they bet money on a random event with the goal of winning something else of value. They may bet on a football game, lottery or scratchcard. When they place their bets, their brain releases dopamine, a chemical that makes them feel pleasure. This response is a result of the fact that humans are biologically programmed to seek rewards. These rewards include things like spending time with friends, a tasty meal and even winning money.
While gambling can be enjoyable for some people, it can also cause problems if the activity becomes compulsive. The following symptoms can indicate a gambling addiction:
The person lies to family members or therapists about the extent of their involvement in gambling; they downplay how much they lose from gambling, or lie about the money they’ve won (chasing losses); they rely on others to fund their gambling or to replace money they’ve lost through gambling; they jeopardize or loss work, education or personal relationships because of their gambling; they’ve committed illegal acts, including forgery, fraud and theft, to finance their gambling; or they are in significant debt as a result of their gambling.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be helpful for people with gambling disorders. It helps them confront their irrational beliefs, such as thinking that a series of near-misses or bad luck means they will win the next time they gamble.