when is it a problem?

Gambling is very common in almost every society but when one develops an inability to resist impulses to gamble, leading to severe personal or social consequences, it becomes more than just a game. When you can’t control your gambling it is called pathological gambling, compulsive gambling or addictive gambling.

Pathological gambling

Pathological gambling consists of persistent failure to resist the urge to gamble, to such an extent that your life is seriously disrupted. Pathological gamblers experience a need to bet more money and gamble more frequently despite knowing the negative consequences. An estimated 1.4% of the population meets the criteria for such pathological gambling.

Causes and risk factors

The cause for this behaviour is not exactly known. However, a combination of genetic predisposition, family history, personality type, and environment may play a role.
Gambling addictions may be linked to genetic factors similar to those that increase the risk of alcoholism.
One risk factor may be excessive alcohol use that lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment. Research shows that 19 to 50% of those treated for compulsive gambling also have drinking problems.

Men are more likely to have gambling problems than women.
Environmental factors including personal, family, work and financial problems also seem to play a major role.
Young people suffering from low self-esteem or depression are at greater risk of having trouble controlling their gambling.

Symptoms:

Some possible warning signs that you may have a gambling problem include:

• Occasional gambling becomes regular gambling

• Being unable to control how long you spend gambling

• Gambling continues until all money is lost or the game is terminated

• Gambling until large debts are accumulated

• Lack of concern about what others will think about you gambling

• Disregarding the laws that apply to gambling

• Breaking the law (e.g. Stealing) to support the gambling or to pay debts

• Withdrawing from families and friends or other social activities

• Suddenly doing poorly in school or at work

• Trying and failing to stop gambling

• Feeling remorseful or depressed after gambling

Signs and tests:

Your doctor will talk to you about your gambling and how you feel about it. It is important to be frank and open about it as it will be difficult for your GP to help unless he knows the extent of the problem.

Consequences

Gambling can lead to more than financial troubles. About 24% of gamblers seeking treatment report that they have attempted suicide. As already stated, many gamblers also have problems with alcohol abuse. Depression, drinking and taking drugs often go along with pathologic gambling as well as neglect of other interests, family, or work. Severe family problems, financial ruin, and criminal behavior to support the gambling habit may result.

Treatment

Once pathological gambling has been recognised it can be treated.
Treatment of compulsive gambling begins with the recognition of the problem. Gamblers often deny the problem. Most people affected by compulsive gambling enter treatment under pressure from others.

Treatment options include individual and group psychotherapy, self-help support groups, along with some form of money management. The goal is to get you back into a normal family life, developing alternative habits, and helping you keep away from the activities that trigger the gambling. You will also need advice about how to understand your gambling urge and how to handle it.
Family and friends can also join a group that helps families and friends deal with a loved one who is a pathologic gambler.

Your GP can work with both you and your family during your treatment. It's important to complete the treatment program.
Treatment for pathologic gambling may also include treatment for depression or substance abuse, if needed.

Prevention:

Prevention of the urge to develop addictive behavior may not be possible. Avoiding situations in which you are likely to gamble may help. The best way to do this may be to change your lifestyle by:

• Adopting healthier hobbies

• Exercising regularly

• Trying to develop an interest in sports

• Staying away from drugs and alcohol

• Avoiding friends involved in gambling

• Discussing any problems or worries with family members and friends or your doctor

Prognosis

Many people are able to gain control over their lives after undergoing treatment for compulsive gambling. Unfortunately many people may relapse and will need further treatment to stop gambling again. Most people who have had a problem with gambling should avoid all gambling in the future.