Gambling Disorders

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You’re sitting in a twinkly casino, you’ve filled up on the free cocktails and you’re itching to roll a few dice to see if lady luck is on your side. But don’t be fooled: Gambling is more than just about the odds and the money you can win. It involves a complex mix of factors that can influence your decisions, actions and emotions.

Most adults and adolescents have placed a bet of some kind. And, while many do so without a problem, a small percentage develop gambling disorder, which is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition) as “an uncontrollable urge to gamble that results in distress or impairment.”

There are a number of different theories as to what causes people to develop a gambling addiction. Some of these include recreational interest, diminished mathematical skills, poor judgment, cognitive distortions and mental illness. Others point to family or peer influences, a traumatic life event, or moral turpitude.

Regardless of the cause, it’s important to recognize when you have a problem and seek help before things get out of control. You can also try to strengthen your support network, find other ways to entertain yourself, or join a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which uses the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous to help individuals overcome their addiction. The National Gambling Helpline, operated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, is another helpful resource.

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