This can have a psychological, personal, physical, social, or professional impact. As the craving grows in intensity and frequency, the ability to control the urge to gamble is weakened. At the same time, the ability to resist drops. An increasing amount of alcohol is necessary for the same “buzz.”Ī person who has an addiction to gambling needs to gamble more to get the same “high.” In some instances, they “chase” their losses, thinking that if they continue to engage in gambling, they will win back lost money.Ī vicious circle develops, and an increased craving for the activity. In other addictions, alcohol, for instance, the person starts developing a tolerance. Gambling behavior alters the person’s mood and state of mind.Īs the person becomes used to this feeling, they keep repeating the behavior, attempting to achieve that same effect. Share on Pinterest Gambling addiction is a debilitating condition, causing depression and distress.įor someone with a gambling addiction, the feeling of gambling is equivalent to taking a drug or having a drink. sex, as it is more likely to affect men than women.the use of certain medications, for example, antipsychotic medications, and dopamine agonists, which have been linked to a higher risk of a gambling addiction.other addictions, such as drugs or alcohol.depression, anxiety conditions, or personality disorders.However, some people who gamble never experience any other addiction. Secondary addictions can also occur in an effort to reduce the negative feelings created by the gambling addiction. The use of some medications has been linked to a higher risk of compulsive gambling. Some people who are affected by gambling may also have a problem with alcohol or drugs, possibly due to a predisposition for addiction. Genetic and neurological factors may play a role. Studies have suggested that people with a tendency to one addiction may be more at risk of developing another. environmental factors, such as friends or available opportunities.emotional upheaval, such as depression or anxiety.Many people who develop a gambling addiction are considered responsible and dependable people, but some factors can lead to a change in behavior. The individual may not realize they have a problem for some time. Gambling behavior becomes a problem when it cannot be controlled and when it interferes with finances, relationships, and the workplace.

The activity can be described on a spectrum, ranging from abstinence through recreational gambling to problem gambling.

No one can predict who will develop an addiction to gambling.

Gambling can lead to a range of problems, but the addiction can happen to anyone.

Gambling psychological intervention