The Addiction of Gambling

Although not everyone who gambles develops a gambling problem, others will participate in uncontrolled gambling that could lead to personal and financial consequences. There are some signs of this addiction: telling lies to family members and even friends concerning the behavior and a preoccupation with gambling. Some mental health disorders often coexist in people with a gambling addiction and these can include: depression, alcoholism, panic disorder and narcissistic personality disorder. A high rate of suicide is also seen in pathological gamblers. Pathological gambling more often affects men than women, more young people than seniors and more African Americans than other cultures. If you have exposure to gambling when you are young, have the access to gambling facilities and a family history of gambling addiction, these can all raise a person’s risk of developing this addiction. A chemical imbalance found in the brain, researchers say, can also play a part in creating a pathological gambling trait. It is important for people with a gambling addiction to consult with a psychiatrist for a thorough physical and psychiatric evaluation as this can help recognize any coexisting disorders that should be treated. Typical treatment for gamblers can include medication, such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers, and/or psychotherapy.