How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction

A gambling addiction is a serious problem that can affect many areas of your life, including family, work, and finances. It can also have a negative impact on your mental health. You can take steps to overcome your problem gambling and improve your life by seeking treatment. There are a number of different options for recovery, from individual therapy to peer support groups. In addition, it is important to work with a financial expert who can help you manage your debt and make healthy money choices.

Gambling is the betting of something of value, such as money or possessions, on an event whose outcome is uncertain and for which the primary intent is to win additional money or material goods. It includes all kinds of games of chance, as well as lotteries and races. It can be conducted in casinos, on racetracks, or even in the home.

While most people who gamble do so without problems, a small number develop a pathological gambling disorder, which is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a diagnosable condition. The vast majority of these disorders occur in people who have low incomes and are more likely to be men. In addition, young people tend to be more vulnerable than adults to developing a gambling disorder, with up to 5% of adolescents and young adults developing one.