How to Avoid Gambling Addiction

Gambling involves placing something of value (money, items, or services) on a chance event with the intent to win a prize. It is an activity that can be both fun and addictive. Occasional gambling can provide enjoyment and a quick rush of adrenaline, but if it is used as a way to make money or distract from other problems in life it can lead to serious problem gambling and even addiction. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of gambling addiction it is important to talk with a trusted friend or family member and seek help. You can also find non-judgemental support from the GamCare helpline.

There are many different types of gambling, ranging from the obvious, such as betting on sports events or games of chance, to scratch-off tickets and online gaming. Even activities like gardening, attending a concert or volunteering may be considered gambling if they involve taking a risk for a reward. Often people with a gambling problem do not realize that even these activities can become problematic. This is because the brain’s reward system changes when someone becomes addicted to gambling. The person’s ability to think rationally can be affected as well, and they may feel compelled to gamble more frequently.

In addition to the physical and emotional effects of gambling, problem gamblers can often have legal issues and financial problems. They may commit crimes such as forgery, fraud, theft or embezzlement to finance their gambling. They may even jeopardize a significant relationship, job or educational or career opportunity because of their gambling habit. They often lie to friends, family and therapists to conceal the extent of their involvement with gambling. They can also lose a lot of money, even to the point where they can’t pay their bills.

A healthy lifestyle includes a variety of fun and enriching activities. Keeping a balanced schedule and spending time with friends and family is key to staying happy and healthy. If you have been gambling to relieve stress, anxiety or depression or to escape from other problems in your life, consider replacing this behavior with a hobby, exercise or socializing. It is also helpful to be aware of your triggers and avoid situations or people that make you want to gamble. For example, if you are more likely to gamble after drinking alcohol, consider not going out for drinks. Alternatively, you can try to spend more time with your friends who don’t drink or join a non-gambling social group, such as a book club, movie night or a volunteer activity. It’s also important to have a strong support network and participate in a recovery program such as Gamblers Anonymous, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. This helps you build a community of people who have experience staying sober and can offer invaluable guidance and support. You can also learn skills for managing your gambling behaviors through cognitive-behavioral therapy. This is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing unhealthy gambling behaviors and thoughts, such as rationalizations and false beliefs.