Gambling is the act of placing something of value, usually money, on an event that depends on chance and is out of one’s control or influence, with the understanding that if the outcome is a positive (win) or a negative (loss). It can be done in many ways, including betting on sports events, games of chance like dice or roulette, or playing casino-style table or video games.
Many people gamble for fun, without developing a gambling problem. But, if someone’s behavior becomes uncontrollable or interferes with their work or family life, it is considered a disorder. This is called ‘problem gambling’ or ‘gambling addiction’ and can affect anyone.
People who develop a problem with gambling often become preoccupied with the idea of winning or losing. They may spend more time than they should on gambling, and miss out on other activities they enjoy, such as spending time with friends or family who don’t gamble, exercising, or practicing relaxation techniques. They might also use gambling as a way to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as boredom or loneliness.
If you have a problem with gambling, it’s important to get help. Birches Health can connect you with a licensed professional counselor who understands gambling addiction. They can work with you to identify underlying issues and provide you with resources for local support groups or intensive treatment programs in your area. It is also recommended to set a budget for gambling, and to not use credit or debit cards while you are gambling.
