0
0
Gambling is wagering money or other things of value on an event with random or uncertain outcomes. Historically, gambling was associated with games of chance or skill and has also been seen as a form of legalised robbing and fraud (Oxford English Dictionary, 1989).
People with gambling problems are at risk of depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. This is why it’s important to seek treatment for any underlying mood issues that may be contributing to the problem.
When you gamble, your brain sends massive surges of dopamine that can change your thoughts and feelings – you might feel a rush when you win or think about winning more in the future. These sensations are not sustainable, but they do cause you to seek more pleasure from gambling and less from other activities that can bring you pleasure, like spending time with your family or friends, eating a healthy meal or getting exercise.
Over time, gambling can change your brain chemistry and reduce the level of pleasure you experience. Eventually, you’ll need to gamble more and more to get the same feeling of pleasure. This is known as addiction or compulsive gambling disorder.
There are no medications for gambling disorders, but there are a number of treatments that can help you stop gambling. These include psychotherapy, which can teach you how to cope with negative emotions and change your unhealthy thoughts and behaviours. It can also help you find other ways to enjoy your life.
