Gambling is an activity where you place a wager on the outcome of a game of chance. People have been gambling since the earliest evidence of human civilization. In fact, tiles have been found that appear to show a rudimentary form of gambling from around 2,300 B.C. However, gambling is illegal in many countries.

In addition, it is a risky activity that can lead to a financial crisis if you’re not careful. In some cases, it can even cause serious mental health issues. If you’re worried about your own gambling habits or the behavior of a loved one, there are steps you can take to get help.

The first step is admitting that you have a problem. This can be a difficult step, especially if you’ve lost a lot of money and have strained or broken relationships as a result of your gambling habit. But it’s important to realize that you are not alone, and many others have successfully overcome gambling problems.

Once you’ve made the decision to seek help, it’s time to start finding ways to cope. One of the most important things you can do is strengthen your support network. This can be done by reaching out to friends and family, or making new connections. There are also many support groups available for people who struggle with gambling addiction. One option is Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program that’s modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a great way to connect with people who have the same struggles and can offer you valuable guidance and encouragement.

There are also many behavioral therapies that can help you break your gambling habit. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for gambling disorder, as it teaches you to recognize and challenge irrational beliefs and behaviors associated with gambling. It can also teach you to develop healthier coping mechanisms, such as learning how to manage your stress and find other enjoyable activities.

Another treatment option is family therapy. This type of therapy aims to improve the relationship between you and your family members. It can also help you deal with any other mental health issues that may be contributing to your gambling disorder. For example, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse can trigger or worsen gambling problems.

Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t approve any medications for gambling disorders, several psychotherapy treatments are available. Some of these include psychodynamic therapy, which explores unconscious processes that influence your behavior. Other options include group therapy and psychoeducational techniques, which teach you to identify and change unhealthy emotions and thoughts. It’s important to work with a licensed and vetted professional who has experience helping people with gambling disorders. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to find and connect with the right therapist. With BetterHelp, you can be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Start your search today!