Gambling Disorders

Gambling is an activity where wealth changes hands based on chance and involves risk. It can include betting, fruit machines, lotteries, casino games and scratchcards. The main impulses driving gambling are the desire for gain, the desire for a thrill and the desire for competition. Creative effort and useful skills are not integral to gambling, but it can be organized commercially, e.g. through horse races and casinos.

Many people are able to gamble safely and responsibly, but some become seriously involved in terms of time and money wagered. This can have negative personal, family and financial consequences. A person with a gambling problem may hide or downplay their behavior, have a difficult time stopping or may experience relapse after trying to stop. In some cases, the person may even be dependent on other people to fund their gambling or replace their losses. Some people also have coexisting mental health issues that contribute to the problems.

Psychiatric and substance abuse treatment can help with gambling disorder, as well as lifestyle changes that promote healthy habits. A therapist can help identify unhealthy thoughts and emotions, and teach strategies for coping with stress. There are no medications that have been approved by the FDA to treat gambling disorders, but there are a variety of psychotherapies that can be helpful.

If you are struggling with a gambling addiction, take action! Reach out to a BetterHelp therapist, who can help you overcome the problem and build a healthier life.