Gambling involves a person risking something of value on an uncertain event. This is considered a form of impulse control disorder, which can lead to suicidal thoughts. While gambling is a popular social activity, it should be considered an unhealthy addiction, and a person who is prone to it should seek professional help.
Problem gambling is a form of impulse-control disorder
Problem gambling has negative social, psychological, and physical consequences. Often, problem gamblers experience a variety of health problems, including migraine, intestinal disorders, and distress. These symptoms may lead to feelings of despondency and even suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, there is treatment available for this disorder.
In 1975, the National Council on Problem Gambling was founded by the Council on Compulsive Gambling. This group began meeting in 1972 and was incorporated in 1975. The group did not lobby the APA or make any influence on the creation of the DSM-III. Instead, the organization credits Custer with ensuring that the disorder was recognized as a legitimate medical condition.
It can lead to suicidal tendencies
Suicidal tendencies can result from problem gambling. The association between problem gambling and suicidal behavior has been well-documented in several studies. Researchers have attributed this connection to the negative consequences of gambling, which often include psychological and financial stress. In one study, 36% to 50% of treatment-seeking problem gamblers had a history of suicidal ideation.
In another study, gambling was associated with a fifteen-fold increase in the risk of suicide in people with gambling disorder. The study also showed an association between gambling and mood disorders.
It is a social activity
While gambling is often seen as a social activity, it is actually very harmful for many people. While many people enjoy the fun and excitement of gambling, a significant minority become addicted to it. This group is known as compulsive gamblers, who are unable to control their urges to gamble. They are drawn to the “high” of winning and betting, and tend to chase losses with even more betting. Experts say that gambling is as addictive as heroin, and is one of the fastest growing addictions in the United States.
The number of older adults who engage in gambling has risen significantly in recent years. Many older adults gamble to avoid boredom and be part of the action. Gambling affects social, emotional, and intellectual health. As a result, it is not surprising that the number of senior casino visitors has increased. In fact, the increase in senior casino visits is more than double that of any other age group. This recent expansion of casinos has provided a new avenue for urban elders to participate in social activities.
It can be treated
Gambling addiction can be treated like any other disorder, using a combination of therapy methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common approach, helping clients reprogram their negative beliefs about gambling to change their actions. This approach also helps with emotional challenges. Patients with compulsive gambling often suffer from depression. If the depression is untreated, it can lead to relapse.
While the literature on pathological gambling treatment has been mixed, there are several main treatment approaches that have been studied. These include cognitive-behavioral, 12-step, and psychodynamic approaches. However, these approaches have not been rigorously evaluated for their efficacy, and pharmacotherapies have not been proven to be effective in a clinical setting.