Gambling addiction affects approximately 1% of U.S. adults, which is about two million people. Millions of other people may be on the verge of becoming compulsive gamblers. These people see their daily lives being impacted by the outcomes of their gambling.
Sometimes, these people gamble instead of going to work or school, or they spend money that was intended for other important things like paying for rent, food, or bills.
If you've ever been to a casino, you've likely felt the "high," of playing a slot machine, betting money on a roulette wheel, or going in on a hand of poker.
It's thrilling to win money, and our brains are hardwired to seek those kinds of thrills because they could pay off. However, the chance of actually winning a significant amount of money from gambling is extremely slim.
According to the DSM-5, a diagnosis of gambling disorder requires at least four (4) of the following in a 12-month period:
Needing to gamble with more money in order to achieve the desired excitement.
Is anxious or irritable when they try to cut back or stop gambling.
Has made several failed efforts to manage, reduce, or quit gambling.
Is often focused solely on gambling (e.g., having persistent thought of previous gambling experiences or thinking about future plans to gamble).
Regularly gambles when feeling anxious or depressed.
After a gambling loss, returns in an effort to break even.
Lies to others to hide gambling involvement.
Has risked or lost important relationships, jobs, or other opportunities because of gambling.
Borrows money for bills and other expenses after a gambling loss.