Gambling involves placing something of value at risk for the potential to win a prize. This can be money, or materials such as marbles or collectible game pieces (such as the small discs in Pogs or Magic: The Gathering trading cards). Some people gamble to make a profit; others do it for recreation and fun.
Gambling is often a recreational activity for people who have enough income to afford it, but for many others it can be a dangerous habit that leads to debt and even bankruptcy. It’s important to know the warning signs of gambling addiction so that you or someone you care about can get help if necessary.
Symptoms of gambling disorder include: (1) repeatedly losing control over one’s behavior when playing casino games or other forms of gambling; (2) lying to family members, friends, therapists, or employers about the extent of their involvement in gambling; (3) relying on credit cards or loans to fund gambling activities; and (4) attempting to get back lost money through gambling (called “chasing”). These behaviors are considered compulsive by the American Psychiatric Association and included in the diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling.
The best way to prevent problem gambling is to avoid high-risk situations and stay away from places that are known to trigger the urge. It’s also helpful to replace problem gambling with other rewarding activities, like spending time with family and friends, rekindling old hobbies, or practicing mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing.