Gambling Addiction - The "substance" abuse without the substance

Games like poker, mahjong, blackjack, craps, and Pai Gow poker can be entertaining activities at social events. Although these games are inherently harmless, adding incentives or money can transform a fun game into an addiction.

The DSM describes Gambling Disorder as "persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress." People with a gambling addiction frequently show specific behaviors, including being preoccupied with gambling, needing to wager larger sums to reach the desired excitement, and experiencing increased frustration when attempting to reduce or cease gambling. They might use gambling to escape reality, pursue the highs of winning despite losses, lie or steal from loved ones to finance their gambling, and depend on others for financial assistance.

Chasing is a key indicator of gambling addiction. This behavior refers to the tendency to gamble more money in an attempt to recover losses or to achieve what one believes should have been their winnings. To someone who does not gamble or suffers from gambling addiction, this behavior may seem illogical; however, for those who engage in "chasing," it feels entirely rational.

Therapy addresses the underlying reasons for gambling, its impact on the individual and their families, explores conflict resolution strategies, provides insight into harm reduction, and encourages replacing the urge to gamble with more meaningful activities and relationships while rebuilding finances.