Is Gambling an Addiction?

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Gambling involves betting something of value, usually money, on an uncertain event with a significant element of chance or randomness. It can include games of chance such as poker, roulette or slots; wagers on sports events like horse races or football accumulators; and lotteries. While the skill of players in card games or of bettor in a race can improve the odds, these factors do not eliminate the overall uncertainty and randomness of the outcome.

A number of studies have found that gambling may be addictive. However, it is important to remember that the studies are based on persons in treatment and not general populations. In addition, there is no clear evidence that gambling is an addiction in the same way as substance abuse is. Nonetheless, there is growing consensus that pathological gambling may be similar to other psychiatric disorders and that it should be classified as an impulse control disorder.

It is estimated that 2.5 million Americans meet diagnostic criteria for a severe gambling problem and another 5-8 million have mild to moderate gambling problems. However, many of these individuals do not have a diagnosis of pathological gambling and are able to control their behavior.

If you are struggling with a loved one’s gambling addiction, it is important to seek help and support. Family therapy and other forms of counseling can help you work through the issues that have been caused by the gambling addiction and rebuild your relationships.