Gambling involves wagering something of value on an event with uncertain outcomes. People who gamble often experience a variety of positive and negative impacts on themselves, others, and society as a whole. While the majority of people who engage in gambling do so without a problem, a small percentage develops gambling disorder, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), an addictive behavior that is considered a medical condition.
Research on gambling has been conducted at the individual, interpersonal, and community/society levels. There is a growing role for the evaluation of patient gambling behaviors in primary care settings to identify and treat pathological gambling.
Problem gambling is an addiction that can cause major problems for the gambler and his or her family. It can damage relationships, affect one’s performance at work and school, deteriorate physical health, increase stress, and lead to financial difficulties such as bankruptcy and homelessness. In some cases, it can even lead to suicide.
There are some ways to stop gambling if you think you might have a problem, including getting rid of credit cards, putting someone else in charge of money, having the bank automatically make payments for you, closing online betting accounts, and keeping only a small amount of cash with you at all times. You can also find support by joining a peer group like Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step recovery program based on Alcoholics Anonymous. Lastly, try to spend more time with supportive friends and family members.