How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction

Gambling is the staking of something of value, such as money or property, on an event with a chance of winning something else of value. It involves risk and intention, but not necessarily skill. People gamble on a wide range of events, from sports and horse racing to television shows and lottery games. It is possible to win big amounts of money from gambling, but it is also common for gamblers to lose much more than they wager. Gambling can be a source of stress and anxiety, and it can lead to depression, family conflict, drug abuse and even suicide.

The most important step in overcoming gambling addiction is admitting that you have a problem. This can be difficult, especially if your gambling has ruined or strained many relationships. However, it is essential if you are to break the cycle and begin to rebuild your life. The next steps are to strengthen your support network and find new activities to occupy your time. This could include joining a book or sports club, taking a class, or volunteering for a worthwhile cause. It is also helpful to join a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows the model of Alcoholics Anonymous.

If you have a gambling addiction, it is vital to seek help as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to break free from the habit. In addition, it is important to understand what makes you vulnerable to gambling problems so that you can take steps to prevent or manage them.

While the majority of gamblers do not have a gambling disorder, 2.5 million adults (1% of all Americans) meet the diagnostic criteria for a severe gambling disorder. Another 5-8 million adults (2-3%) have mild or moderate gambling problems, and many of these do not seek help. These individuals may be at high risk for developing a gambling disorder, as they are more likely to continue to gamble despite significant losses and have fewer social supports.

There are a number of warning signs that you may have a gambling problem. These include: