Gambling Disorders

Gambling involves risking something valuable for a chance to win money or other prizes. It can be fun and offer a rush when things shake out in your favor, but it can also quickly become an obsession that can damage family relationships, interfere with work, and cause other health problems.

Unlike many other medical conditions, gambling is a public health problem that can affect anyone, regardless of age, race or socioeconomic status. The number of people with gambling disorders is growing. Moreover, gambling has expanded from traditional casinos and racetracks to gas stations, church halls, and sports events. In addition, more people are betting online. It’s never been easier to place a bet.

There are a few national organizations that promote responsible gaming. They provide education and support services for people with gambling disorders. But the majority of research on gambling is conducted at the state and local levels. This is in part because funding from the federal government is limited and gambling is a relatively minor source of tax revenue.

If you have a loved one with a gambling disorder, be sure to seek help. Depending on the severity, a person with a gambling disorder may require psychotherapy and/or medication. If they’re a compulsive gambler, they might also need treatment for an underlying condition like depression or bipolar disorder. It’s important to find a program that treats both the gambling behavior and any mental health conditions. It’s also helpful to build a strong support network and join a peer group for recovery, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model used by Alcoholics Anonymous.