Gambling refers to any activity wherein one risks something of value for a chance at winning a prize, whether that means betting horses, playing slot machines, online gambling, fantasy sports leagues or DIY investing. Whatever form it takes, all forms of gambling can become addictive due to increased risk-taking and decreased impulse control; those addicted may suffer severe repercussions for themselves, their families and society at large.
The primary causes of problematic gambling include:
Misconceptions: Many individuals believe gambling to be low risk and high reward, when in reality this is not true; gamblers usually lose more money than they win from gambling and the house always has an edge against players. Many also think they can overcome gambling addiction simply by changing their behavior; this requires time, energy and effort, with some individuals never managing it altogether.
Biological Changes: For years, psychiatrists viewed pathological gambling as an impulse control disorder – an umbrella category which included other behavioral addictions like kleptomania (stealing) and trichotillomania (hair-pulling). But in 2015, the American Psychiatric Association officially included pathological gambling among other addictive disorders – this shift indicates an understanding of its biology as well as has already altered how psychiatrists support those struggling with this problem.
Brain Changes: As people continue gambling, their brain changes over time as their tolerance increases and no longer get the same thrill when starting out. Their prefrontal cortex becomes less active so it cannot control urges when they arise – leading them to need ever increasing amounts in order to feel satisfied, which often leads to addictions forming.
Interpersonal/community/societal levels: Gambling can have both positive and negative societal ramifications, with its negative repercussions often manifesting themselves through financial, labor and health and wellbeing impacts. Positive repercussions relate to social capital development and quality of life improvement – often unseen or ignored by both gamblers themselves and those around them.
In essence, the best way to prevent gambling addiction is to stop engaging in any gambling behaviors before they even start. Reducing debt requires canceling credit cards, delegating finances to someone else and setting your bank up with automatic payments; closing online betting accounts; and keeping only a small amount of cash at hand. As part of their gambling activity, gambling may not be for everyone; however, those who do enjoy it can have an enjoyable time doing it. Nonetheless, those who find gambling enjoyable can walk away having had an excellent experience. Since our brains continue to develop until age 25, this age group is more prone to bad habits in general and more likely to fall prey to gambling and drug addiction. Therefore, it’s wise to stay aware of potential areas for concern when working with vulnerable adults and follow all necessary protocols when working with these vulnerable individuals.
