How to Protect Yourself From Gambling
Gambling is an activity where someone puts something of value at risk on a random event and hopes to win something else of value. This can include betting on a football game, buying a lottery ticket or playing a card game like poker.
Humans are biologically programmed to seek rewards and when they experience pleasure – such as when they spend time with friends or enjoy a delicious meal – the brain releases dopamine. When people gamble, the same chemical is released but with less effect because the chances of winning are so much smaller than spending time with loved ones or eating a nice meal.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to gambling excessively, and there are many factors that can contribute to the development of pathological gambling, including underlying mood disorders such as depression, stress or anxiety. People can also develop a tolerance to gambling, meaning that they no longer get the same enjoyment from it as they used to and need more to feel satisfied.
To help protect yourself, only gamble with money that you can afford to lose and set money and time limits for yourself. Make sure you never use money that is needed for essentials such as bills or rent, and avoid chasing losses. When you reach your limits, walk away from the table or machine and find another way to enjoy yourself. It is also important to seek professional help if you think that your gambling has become problematic, as a variety of psychotherapies have proven successful in treating this disorder. These include psychodynamic therapy, in which you work with a mental health professional to explore unconscious processes that influence your behavior, and group therapy, where you meet with other people who have similar issues.
