Gambling Disorders

Gambling involves placing something of value, such as money, on an event whose outcome is determined by chance. This can be done by betting on sporting events, card games, table games and casino games or by playing the lottery. It can also be done online. Gambling is a highly addictive activity with many people developing a gambling disorder, which is characterized by the need to gamble even when it causes negative consequences.

The most common cause of gambling disorders is a history of depression or other mental health problems, but even those who don’t have a history of these conditions can develop a gambling addiction. The highs and lows of gambling can be very intense and can lead to feelings of euphoria or despair. It is not uncommon for those who become addicted to gambling to begin to gamble as a way of trying to escape from their feelings or to try and relive the euphoria of past wins.

A gambling disorder can lead to financial difficulties – bills don’t get paid, debts build up and pay day loans are taken out. It can then be very hard to break the cycle and stop gambling. Some people start to steal from family, friends or their own businesses in order to fund their habit. It is important to remember that a loved one who has developed a gambling problem didn’t choose to become addicted and doesn’t have any control over how they are acting.

Some people are more vulnerable to developing gambling disorders than others. This could be due to a range of reasons such as their genetic make-up, the way they manage their emotions and how much they enjoy thrill-seeking behaviours. Biological factors, including an underactive reward system in the brain, can be a risk factor as well. Young people are particularly susceptible, with up to 5% of adolescents and young adults who gamble developing a gambling disorder. This is because their brains aren’t fully mature until the age of 25 and they can be more impulsive than older people.

Understanding why some people develop a gambling disorder may help us to identify who is at risk and improve the way we treat them. In particular, we need to understand more about how the brain processes rewards and impulses, and how that relates to gambling addiction. We also need to understand how a person’s culture can shape their thoughts and values about gambling, which could make it more difficult for them to recognise that they have a gambling problem. This will help us to develop more effective interventions. In the meantime, primary care providers should be aware that they have a role to play in evaluating patients’ gambling behaviors for signs of an addictive disorder. This will include looking at their family history and other personal information. It will also involve asking questions about their current and previous gambling activities.