Gambling is the wagering of something of value, such as money or other items of value, on an uncertain event whose outcome depends on chance. Unlike some forms of gambling, where knowledge and skill can improve one’s chances of winning, most forms of gambling involve a high degree of randomness and cannot be predicted or controlled (Clotfelter and Cook, 1989).

While the definition of gambling is broad, there are several things all gamblers have in common: they make repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop their gambling; often gamble when they are feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed); after losing money gambling, they return another day in order to get even (“chasing” their losses); and they may lie to family members, therapists, or others in order to conceal the extent of their involvement with gambling. In addition, many gamblers have jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, educational or career opportunity, or resorted to illegal activities in order to fund their gambling.

As the amount of money wagered on gambling increases, so does the potential for addiction and other mental health problems. The current state of research and treatment for gambling disorder has led to an understanding of the phenomenon that is analogous to the change in how we view alcoholism: individuals who experience adverse consequences of excessive gambling now are viewed as people with psychological problems rather than as gamblers with gambling problems (American Psychiatric Association, 1994).

Although there is a lot of debate about whether gambling should be considered a disease or not, the current understanding of the condition is that it is a psychopathological disorder characterized by compulsive gambling behavior resulting in significant impairment of one’s functioning and relationships. As a result, this disorder is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) under the category of pathological gambling.

Because gambling is a complex phenomenon, there are many different theories about why some people develop this disorder. Some people believe that the development of gambling disorders is related to genetics or a predisposition toward addictive behaviors. Other researchers suggest that the development of gambling disorders is a consequence of the interaction between environmental factors and neurobiological processes that are related to risk-taking and reward processing.

Regardless of the cause, there is no doubt that there is a link between gambling disorder and other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Consequently, it is important to identify the signs and symptoms of gambling disorder, and to seek treatment as soon as possible. Fortunately, effective treatments are available. It is also important to educate others about the effects of gambling, and to provide support for those who struggle with this issue. Lastly, it is critical to raise awareness about the availability of resources to assist people who are struggling with gambling disorder. These resources include treatment programs, self-help groups, and other support services. They can be found in the local community, on the Internet, and through private organizations.