Gambling can be defined as a game of skill or chance in which someone puts an item of value at risk in hopes of gaining a higher value. Special populations are at particular risk for this type of addiction, including adolescents, veterans, and aging adults. People from the Latino and Asian communities are also at a higher risk than other individuals. Here are some common signs of gambling addiction. Let’s start with an explanation. While gambling is fun, it can easily turn into an addiction.
The first step in overcoming a gambling addiction is to reach out for help. Seek out friends and family for support and guidance. Enrolling in a gambling education class, volunteering for a worthwhile cause, or joining a peer support group are all excellent ways to seek help. In addition, gambling addicts should consider joining a gambling support group like Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled on Alcoholics Anonymous. The program also requires that the individual have a sponsor, who is usually a former gambler. Taking the time to seek help from a sponsor can be invaluable in this case.
Gambling is an international commercial activity, and in 2009 the legal gambling market in the United States and Europe totaled $335 billion. The game can also be played with objects of value. Players of marbles, for example, might wager a marble, while players of Magic: The Gathering can stake their collectible game pieces. These collectible pieces can then become the subject of a meta-game. A person with a gambling problem should seek help as soon as possible.