Understanding Gambling

Gambling refers to risking property or value on an event with an uncertain outcome, with the primary intention of winning additional property or value.
It’s classified as a non-substance-related addiction due to the behavioural obsessions it can breed, similar to the characteristics of drug dependency.
Known also as pathological gambling, it’s officially recognised as a mental health condition.

Causes and Risk Factors

Predisposition to gambling can be influenced by genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
High levels of impulsivity and sensation-seeking behaviour can contribute to gambling addiction.
Depression and anxiety are common among gambling addicts, though it’s unclear if these contribute to or result from gambling addiction.
Regular exposure to gambling opportunities (casinos, betting shops online gambling) heightens the risk of developing a gambling problem.

Chronic gambling can lead to severe financial distress and even bankruptcy.
A strong psychological dependence can develop, leading to cravings for gambling comparable to substance cravings.
Persistent gambling can result in depression, anxiety, and other negative emotional states.

Diagnosis for gambling disorder is often done using the DSM-5 criteria developed by the American Psychiatric Association.
This requires persistent gambling that disrupts personal, family, or vocational pursuits and a minimum of four other criteria, such as trying to cut back or stop gambling, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, or using gambling as an escape from problems, within a year.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals understand the underlying cause of their gambling problems and develop new thought and behaviour patterns.
Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous can provide a supportive environment and the encouragement to remain abstinent.
Certain medications, like antidepressants and opioid antagonists, may help some individuals manage their gambling cravings.