Gambling is the betting or staking of something of value with conscious risk and hope of gain, on an event that has a random outcome. It can include placing bets on sports events, games of chance like scratchcards, and even social activities such as playing cards with friends. While most people who gamble have no problems, a small percentage develop gambling disorders, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

People who are more vulnerable to problematic gambling include those who are younger or male and those with lower incomes. This is because they have more to lose than others and more to gain with a big win, and also because of the way that gambling stimulates the brain to release dopamine, which makes the high of winning feel bigger than it actually is.

Those who are struggling with problem gambling can find help through counselling and support groups. Therapy services can help you work through the specific issues that have arisen in your life as a result of your gambling and help you to build a new future. Counselling can help you to develop better coping mechanisms and learn how to manage your emotions in healthier ways. It can also help you to strengthen your support network and identify healthy activities that will replace the urge to gamble.

A major step in overcoming gambling is admitting that you have a problem. This can be hard, especially if you have lost a lot of money or experienced strained or broken relationships as a result of your addiction. However, many people who have struggled with gambling have been able to break the habit and rebuild their lives. There are online services such as BetterHelp that can match you with a therapist who can help you with any issues that are causing you problems, including gambling.

In addition to counselling and support groups, there are also a number of organisations that offer help and advice for those suffering from gambling problems. These can be found through a simple internet search and vary in scope, from helping people to overcome their addictions to providing financial assistance. Many of these services are based around a 12-step recovery model similar to Alcoholics Anonymous.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, it is important to seek help immediately. Problems can escalate quickly – bills don’t get paid, credit cards max out and debts accumulate. Eventually, pay day loans or borrowing from family or friends can look like the only solutions but this will only make things worse in the long term. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness and you can do it. It takes strength and courage to admit that you have a problem, but there is help out there. For more information about gambling and how to get help, visit our site or take our assessment and we’ll match you with a therapist. It’s free and confidential.