Pathological Gambling

Gambling involves putting something of value (usually money) at risk on an event with a chance of winning a prize. This may include lottery tickets, cards, sports events, casinos, horse races, dice and poker. It can also include online gambling, video games and other social activities. Many people enjoy gambling for entertainment, but some develop a problem and gamble compulsively. This type of gambling is referred to as pathological gambling and is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a continuous, recurrent pattern of gambling that causes significant distress or impairment.

People who are addicted to gambling can spend more than they have, including their savings and personal belongings. They may even borrow money to continue gambling. This can cause serious financial problems for them and their families. In addition, their behavior can be damaging to their relationships with family members and friends. Moreover, their addiction can make them lose their jobs.

In order to overcome this, individuals should try to strengthen their support network and seek help from a counselor. They can also join a group that supports people with gambling disorders, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. They should also budget gambling as an expense and not consider it a way to make money. They can also try to find new social activities that will provide them with the excitement they need without gambling. For example, they can try visiting a museum or playing a game of golf.