Did you know an estimated 2 million people in the United States struggle with gambling addictions and the negative repercussions of such behavior? Or that certain individuals are more prone to gambling problems than others?
Below, we explain the causes of gambling addictions, signs and symptoms to look for, and where to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling.
What Causes Gambling Addictions
Personal experiences, life circumstances, a need for validation, and certain personality traits have been known to contribute to gambling problems. But when you dive into the science and chemical makeup of the brain, the reasons become clearer cut.
For starters, there is the brain’s natural risk-reward complex. This is our natural tendency to take risks that can ultimately lead to a reward. For example, we might learn how to snowboard (risk) to feel the thrill of rushing down the mountain (reward). When we finally do experience the reward, a release of dopamine occurs.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps control the brain’s pleasure center, and it’s responsible for the euphoric feelings we experience. When something good happens, like winning a bet, our dopamine levels surge. While this is a normal response when something good happens, a gambling addiction is essentially our risk-reward complex in overdrive.
A State of Overdrive: The Liking vs. Wanting Brain Pathways
Addictions stem from two separate reward pathways in the brain — liking and wanting. Liking is associated with delight from doing something we enjoy and wanting is the desire for something. When we enjoy doing something (liking), our dopamine kicks in, which also increases our desire (want) to experience that feeling more than once.
Ultimately, the want is what motivates someone to gamble repeatedly, until it is disconnected from purely liking the activity altogether. So, what does that mean? That the more they engage in gambling, the more gambling they must do to achieve the same feeling of pleasure.
Who is More Likely to Develop One
Research has shown that the likelihood of developing a gambling problem is five times as likely for men than it is for women. Those who are between the ages of 25 and 34, unemployed, or who struggle with other mental health conditions may also be prone to destructive gambling habits.
Signs & Symptoms of a Gambling Problem
If you or someone you know might be struggling with a gambling addiction, here are a few things to look out for:
- Often betting more than can be afforded
- Constantly looking for ways to acquire more money
- Acts of secrecy when it comes to gambling
- Feelings of stress, anxiety, or guilt when thinking/talking about or engaging in gambling
- A state of financial distress or debt
- Strained relationships
- Betting sums of money that are continually increasing
Overcoming a Gambling Addiction: How to Seek Help
Gambling addictions can be difficult to overcome, but with the right tools, resources, and support system, you can get the help you need to overcome the temptations of gambling moving forward.
At North Jersey Health & Wellness, our specialists are experienced in treating gambling addictions and are here to help you quit gambling for good. To schedule an appointment with a member of our team, give us a call at 201-588-3491 or 973-556-7702.