The Impact of Gambling on a Person’s Mind
Gambling is a social activity that involves the use of money, time, or other assets to gamble. People engage in this activity for many reasons, including the desire to win money, the hope of making a profit, or the desire to win something of greater value. Several special populations are at high risk for gambling, including youth, the aging, Latino and Asian communities, and the veterans. In addition to the general population, the victims of gambling are at a higher risk of developing problem gambling than those who are not addicted.
Problem gambling is a form of pathological gambling
The term “problem gambling” has many different definitions among health professionals. Historically, the diagnostic terminology has ranged from compulsive gambling to pathological gambling. In recent years, the latest diagnostic terminology has been “disordered gambling”. Although the definitions vary, one key characteristic is common to all: an individual suffering from pathological gambling needs to be able to play with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement. Their attempts to control their gambling behavior have failed and they are often restless or irritable.
Some of the consequences of pathological gambling include financial losses and accumulating debt. The sheer amount of money a person can lose over a short period of time can wipe out their entire financial portfolio. Senior gamblers are particularly vulnerable to the financial consequences of pathological gambling. In fact, they are much more likely to declare bankruptcy than the general population. Some of these gamblers even rely on illegal tactics such as using loan sharks to fund their ongoing gambling.
It is a social activity
According to a survey conducted by the Entain Group, over 50% of British adults consider gambling a social activity. One quarter of those who responded to the survey even said that gambling has led to the formation of good friendships. In addition, a majority of participants said they spend twice as much on dining and drinking out as they do on gambling. However, despite these findings, most gamblers still do it responsibly and in a safe manner.
The social aspect of gambling can be seen in its motivations. Some people gamble for the money, while others engage in this activity for the pleasure of playing or to escape from negative feelings. Although gambling is considered a social activity, people do not share the same values and motivations as other groups. Catholics and Protestants tend to view gambling as an utter waste of money, while those in lower socio-economic groups are more likely to be positive toward it.
It is a form of substance abuse
If a person is addicted to gambling, he or she may be suffering from a comorbid disorder – gambling and substance abuse. This comorbid disorder requires treatment for both disorders. CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) focuses on addressing triggers and reinforcers, teaching relaxation and imagery to cope with stress. The same methods can be used to treat substance abuse issues that lead to gambling.
Unlike substance abuse, gambling addiction doesn’t typically cause physical symptoms. Typical substance abuse disorders involve visible intoxication and abnormal eating habits. However, long-term binges of gambling can produce a range of physical issues, such as tics, seizures, and malnutrition. In less severe cases, a general decline in appearance may be evident. Psychiatrists are well-versed in treating gambling addiction.
It can have negative psychological, physical, and social repercussions
The impact of gambling on a person’s mind can be profound. Depending on the extent of gambling problem, it can change the chemistry of the brain, alter the structure of cells, or alter the reward system in the brain. People who gamble often find their pleasure in other activities diminishes. In such a scenario, it may be necessary to seek professional help and support.
Pathological gambling can cause a range of negative psychological, physical, and social consequences. These consequences include increased risk of cardiovascular disease, peptic ulcer disease, and stress-related diseases. Individuals may also experience major depressive episodes, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. They may also develop feelings of intense guilt and impulsivity. Ultimately, problem gambling can ruin their lives and even cause them to attempt suicide.