Gambling is a form of chance-taking that involves risking something, such as money, for a potential reward. People gamble for many reasons – the thrill of winning, socialising, escaping worries or stress or simply to pass time. However, if gambling becomes a problem it can have serious health and financial consequences. In extreme cases, it can even lead to thoughts or feelings of suicide or suicidal ideation.
Many people who have a problem with gambling are able to recognise it themselves. Others may be helped to recognise it by a partner, family member or friend. Often, the first sign of a problem is that bills are not paid or debts accumulate. It is not uncommon for people to take out loans or to steal in order to cover their gambling debts. It is also common for people with a gambling problem to be in financial crisis – they can find themselves losing their home, or struggling to feed their families.
The cause of gambling disorder is not fully understood. However, it is thought that some people may be genetically predisposed to sensation- and novelty-seeking behaviours and impulsivity. It is also possible that certain parts of the brain are underactive and therefore less able to control impulses and assess risks. Studies of identical twins have shown that some people are more likely to develop gambling disorder than others, suggesting a hereditary factor.
A person with a gambling disorder can be treated through a range of therapies, depending on the severity of their symptoms. Some therapies can be used alone, while others are most effective when combined with other treatments, such as a course of medication.
Some of the most common psychotherapies for gambling disorder are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing and group psychotherapy. CBT helps the person to understand how their thoughts influence their actions, so they can unlearn negative and harmful habits and adopt healthier thinking patterns. Motivational interviewing is a type of therapy that encourages the person to identify their own motivations for change, and it can be particularly useful for people with gambling disorders who are unsure whether they actually want to stop.
It can be challenging to cope with a loved one who has a gambling disorder, especially if you feel that they are making excuses or hiding evidence. It is important to get support, and this can be found from friends and family, community organisations, GPs and specialist NHS services.