How Gambling Affects the Brain

Gambling is the wagering of something of value on an event with a random outcome, and it requires three elements: consideration, risk, and a prize. While many people gamble as a form of recreation, some develop problems with gambling that affect their health, relationships, work or studies, and cause them to spend money they don’t have.

Problem gambling affects the brain, and the symptoms can be very difficult to treat, so it is important to recognize them early. Problem gambling can also cause a range of other problems in your life, including depression or anxiety, poor performance at work or school, and financial difficulties that lead to debt, homelessness and even suicide.

Gambling is a complex issue, and it can be hard to agree on how to categorize gambling disorders. Psychiatrists, researchers, other treatment providers and public policy makers often use different paradigms or world views to consider the issue, and this can contribute to differences in terminology. For example, some therapists may use the term “pathological gambling” while others may refer to it as “gambling addiction,” and this can be confusing for patients and other professionals.

There are no medications that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help with gambling disorder, but psychotherapy can be an effective treatment. This is a general term that can include a number of different treatment techniques, and it usually takes place with a trained mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker.

The urge to gamble can be triggered by many factors, including stress or a lack of social activities. It can also be a way to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as boredom or loneliness. However, it is important to find healthier ways to soothe moods and relieve boredom, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or taking up a new hobby.

Research suggests that a gambling disorder can be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, a family history of problems with gambling and environmental influences such as exposure to advertisements for gambling. It can also be exacerbated by underlying mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse.

Over time, excessive gambling can change your brain chemistry and make it harder to experience pleasure in healthy activities, such as eating, working and spending time with family and friends. Fortunately, it is possible to restore normal brain function and learn to enjoy your life again without gambling.

Often, people who are struggling with gambling problems feel the need to hide their problem from others. This can lead to lying and other forms of deception, which can erode trust in relationships. In extreme cases, a serious gambling addiction can also trigger suicidal thoughts and actions, so it is important to seek help immediately if this happens. Speak to your GP or NHS support services for advice. You can also get help and support from Gamblers Anonymous, which offers a 12-step recovery program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous.