Gambling is an activity where people place bets on the outcome of a game or event. While this activity may be seen as fun and exciting, it can also become an addiction that can lead to many negative consequences including financial, family, and psychological harm. There are a number of resources available to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction. These resources include:
The main reason why people gamble is for the thrill of winning and the feeling of being rewarded. When a person wins, their brain produces dopamine to reinforce this positive experience. This reward is similar to the way that practicing a skill such as shooting basketballs into a net can be rewarded by the brain. However, when a person becomes addicted to gambling they no longer feel the pleasure from the dopamine produced by the activity.
Gambling also serves to socialize and bring people together. Many individuals enjoy using their gambling money to pay for a night out with friends. This type of socialization can help reduce stress and provide an opportunity to escape from daily life. This escape is short term and often comes at a high cost.
It can be difficult for a person to recognize when their gambling is causing harm. They may try to hide their addiction or deny it is a problem. The best way to begin addressing a gambling addiction is by strengthening your support network and seeking professional help. BetterHelp is an online therapy service that can match you with a therapist who has experience helping people overcome gambling addictions and other mental health issues. Take our free assessment and be matched with a therapist today.