Despite being a popular pastime, gambling also causes harm to many individuals. In fact, some people develop a serious addiction to gambling which has been known as a disorder. While the exact cause of a gambling disorder is unknown, it is believed that there are a combination of factors including genetics and environment.
Gambling includes a wide variety of activities. For example, many people play card games like poker or blackjack with friends in a private setting where money or chips are wagered. Other examples of private gambling include betting on horse races or football games. Other types of gambling are more commercial in nature and may involve playing the lottery or slot machines at a casino. Some people even place bets with friends or family on sporting events in their social circle (called friendly wagers).
Understanding of the adverse consequences of excessive gambling has undergone significant change. It is now largely recognized that pathological gambling involves a significant and chronic impairment in the ability to control impulses and is a psychological disorder. This development has been reflected in the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (called DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association.
In addition, there are many organizations that provide assistance and treatment for those who have a gambling problem. Generally, these organizations have a focus on helping individuals to control their gambling behavior and/or stop altogether. However, it can be very difficult to recognize when a person’s gambling has become problematic and there is often a tendency to hide the extent of a person’s involvement with gambling.