Gambling can be a fun, social activity that allows people to express themselves and self-soothe. However, gambling can also lead to boredom, as it can become a habit before you even realize it. Instead of gambling, try exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques. Identifying the root cause of your gambling problems may help you find an effective solution. Read on to learn more about gambling addiction and ways to deal with it.
Gambling addiction can have serious repercussions on a person’s physical, psychological, and social health. It is classified as an impulse control disorder, and is associated with several negative consequences. It can lead to migraines, weakened self-control, and even attempts at suicide. As a result, there is no one way to avoid the negative effects of gambling addiction. It is important to seek help as early as possible to avoid its damaging effects.
If gambling becomes a serious problem, help can be sought from mental health professionals. Mental health professionals have established criteria for determining whether someone has a problem with gambling. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a set of criteria that many mental health professionals use when diagnosing psychological problems. The DSM lists Gambling Disorder alongside other addictive behaviors. A Gambler who meets these criteria is prone to impulsive gambling, which occurs when a person repeatedly tries to control their urge to gamble.