Adolescents often gamble for thrills, excitement, or even money. However, this activity can turn into a serious addiction and lead to many health issues, including thoughts of suicide. It is important to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one may be struggling with a gambling problem. This article offers information on some of the signs that a person may be addicted to gambling. We hope that it will help you make the decision to stop gambling.
Adolescents gamble for fun, excitement, and to make money
In modern society, gambling is becoming a widely visible part of daily life. The first generation to grow up around gambling has a strong influence on today’s youth. Parents play an important role in shaping their children’s views on gambling. There are many factors that shape their decision to gamble, including age and family values. Adolescents often say they gamble for fun, excitement, and a challenge. The best way to prevent a gambling problem is to discuss the dangers with your children and teens.
Digital representation of gambling has a profound impact on youth. The constant exposure to gambling-themes increases the probability of young people gambling. Even if youth initially resist the marketing efforts of gambling websites, positive experiences with the activity can influence them to gamble. While the effects of gambling may not be immediately obvious, there are some signs that indicate young people are more prone to gambling. Here are some signs of this impact.
It can turn into an addiction
Until recently, the psychiatric community did not consider pathological gambling a true addiction, but rather a compulsion to win money. It is characterized by intense cravings for money, and may also be motivated by a desire to deal with anxiety. In the late 1980s, it was classified under the impulse control disorder category by the American Psychiatric Association. It was later moved to the addictions chapter of the DSM-5 manual, where it has become a recognized disorder.
Although gambling can become an addiction, there are treatments available for those suffering from an addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be an effective way to address this problem. It teaches individuals how to resist the urges of their brain to indulge in a habit or thought that causes them to feel bad. For example, a gambling addict may learn to confront irrational beliefs. If these symptoms continue, it may be time to see a counselor.
It can lead to thoughts of suicide
Researchers have linked problem gambling with increased risk of suicide. In fact, gambling is one of the main risk factors for suicide. According to the GambleAware report, problem gambling is associated with higher risk of suicide. The study, based on a 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey, found that 41 out of 7,000 participants were problem gamblers, and were twice as likely as other people to attempt suicide in the previous year.
Studies have also found a link between problem gambling and thoughts of suicide. Problem gamblers are six to 15 times more likely than non-gamblers to experience suicidal ideation. This risk remains even after controlling for other risk factors. Other risk factors include depression, substance abuse, and financial problems, but even these can cause suicidal thoughts. Therefore, problem gamblers who have a gambling problem should be evaluated for a history of suicidal thoughts.