How Gambling Affects Depression and Other Mood Disorders
Gambling is an activity in which people stake something of value for a chance to win a prize. It can involve betting on a sports event or buying lottery tickets, for example. It can also take place at casinos, racetracks, or on the Internet. It can be addictive, causing problems for the gambler and their family and friends. Some studies have shown that gambling can be linked to depression and other mood disorders, and can make those conditions worse.
Many people participate in gambling for social reasons, such as playing card games or board games with friends for small amounts of money. Others play for fun, or because they enjoy thinking about what they would do with a big jackpot. People who gamble professionally often have a strong understanding of the games they play and use strategy to win. They may also be able to control their impulsiveness and avoid over-investing in a game.
People who are unable to control their gambling tend to hide their problem and lie about it, which can lead to more trouble. In addition, they may have financial problems that can make it difficult to keep up with their bills and pay for other expenses. People who are addicted to gambling can become violent, and may even try to kill themselves. It is important to seek treatment for a gambling addiction as soon as possible, to prevent the problem from getting worse.
It is believed that gambling stimulates the brain, and changes how a person processes reward information, controls impulses, and weighs risk. It is also thought that some people have an underactive reward system, which makes them more prone to thrill-seeking behaviours and impulsiveness. Other factors that contribute to a person’s risk of developing harmful gambling behaviour include:
Age. Compulsive gambling is more common in younger people, and it can be more serious in women. The environment and community in which a person lives can also affect their exposure to gambling and their risk of developing a problem.
Many people who are addicted to gambling have underlying mood disorders such as depression or stress, which can be made worse by the activity. Those who are prone to mood disorders should seek help for them before trying to control their gambling. Support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous can also help, by providing guidance and support to those who struggle with gambling. Other ways of building a stronger support network include joining a book club or a sports team, enrolling in an education class, or volunteering for a good cause. Those who have a strong support network are more likely to be successful in beating a gambling habit. In addition, they should try to find other hobbies or activities that are not related to gambling, such as sports or art. They should also avoid drinking alcohol and taking recreational drugs, which can increase the likelihood of gambling problems. They should also set limits for how much time and money they will spend gambling, and never chase their losses, as this can lead to bigger and more severe losses.