Gambling Addiction · What Is It, Causes, Signs, Prevention, Support, and More

Gambling behavior and addiction are often enabled and perpetuated by the gambling industry itself. Gambling advertising, for instance, is used as a tool to attract both new and consistent gamblers across a wide range of platforms, such as online marketing, social media, television, newspaper ads, billboards, and sponsorship. Online advertising is particularly effective, since it can be tailored and targeted based on demographics and interests. Consequently, the ad-viewer can be encouraged to engage in online gambling at the click of a few buttons. 

Another common tactic used by the industry is known as “welcome incentives” or incentives to draw in first-time gamblers, typically online. These include free or risk-free bets. These offers, however, often have hidden terms and conditions that require the individual to continue engaging in gambling behavior. 

Additionally, online gambling sites make it very easy to register and deposit funds, while making it much more difficult to withdraw winnings. This, in turn, can discourage individuals from withdrawing, and instead leads to continued gambling. 

Finally, casinos often enable gamblers through excessive stimulation and distraction, such as enticing ambience, loud music, and lack of windows. These factors can also lure individuals in and often make them lose track of time while gambling.

Gambling addiction can act very similarly to drug addiction. In both cases, the reward pathway in the brain can be stimulated, creating a sense of satisfaction. More specifically, the stimulation of this reward pathway triggers the release of a chemical messenger called dopamine, which leads to an euphoric feeling. Gambling products that enable easy and fast play, seen in particular with fixed-odds betting, can also be addictive, as ‘near wins’, which are losses disguised as a win, also excite the reward pathway in the brain. 

Gambling addiction is often described as being a silent addiction. However, it can cause a wide variety of signs and symptoms that primarily manifest as behavioral changes. Problem gamblers often appear preoccupied with gambling by reliving past gambling experiences or planning future ones. Increased risk-taking, such as larger bets or wagers, can also be a sign of addiction. A compulsive gambler may also resort to gambling in order to cope with personal problems or stresses. Additionally, individuals may lie in an effort to hide the extent of their problem and often jeopardize important relationships and opportunities because of gambling. In some cases, individuals may have an increased likelihood of committing crimes such as theft—typically, in an effort to generate more money to gamble. When attempting to cut back on gambling, individuals may experience signs of withdrawal, such as depression, insomnia, cravings, anxiety, and irritability. 

Most signs of gambling addiction are difficult for the individual themselves to recognize, and they may often display increased denial. It is important that family and friends keep a watchful eye on such signs if gambling addiction is suspected.

Treatment for gambling addiction begins with the individual acknowledging their disorder. This can be one of the most challenging parts of treating compulsive gambling, as it is often very difficult for compulsive gamblers to admit they have a problem. 

In some cases, medications that treat mental disorders, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, can aid in reducing gambling behaviors. Long term treatment to overcome gambling addiction often focuses on behavioral changes and support. Oftentimes, behavior therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may be beneficial. Behavior therapy employs systematic exposure to gambling behaviors in an effort to reduce urges. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on replacing unhealthy behaviors and beliefs with healthy and positive ones. Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, can also be helpful. Through these interventions, individuals should aim to create barriers between themself and gambling, change how they view gambling, and develop new hobbies. Another suggested tool is self-exclusion, which refers to blocking oneself from gambling temptation. This can be done through certain software used to block online gambling (e.g. Gamban or BetBlocker), or can be arranged with gambling operators and personal banks to prevent gambling in other forms.

Depending on the individual’s needs and resources, treatment may involve inpatient programs, outpatient programs, or in some cases a residential treatment facility. It is important to note that despite treatment, one can still be at risk of relapse, especially if exposed to other gamblers or gambling environments. It is recommended to reach out to a physician or mental health provider if one feels particularly at risk of relapse.

It can be hard if a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction. In order to help, it is important to look out for signs of the problem, such as excessive gambling, preoccupation, lying, and often lifestyle changes. The first recommended step is to talk to the individual. Although you cannot force one to confront their addiction, you can certainly offer your support if it feels safe to do so. You can also encourage the individual to seek professional help in dealing with their addiction when they feel ready. 

If your loved one’s addiction is causing problems for yourself, such as anxiety, it is recommended to also seek out mental health support for yourself.