How to Prevent Gambling Addiction
Gambling is a major problem for many people. Adolescents and adults are not immune to the lure of the casino. The problem also extends to commercial establishments and the misuse of prescription drugs. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent gambling addiction and stop it from spreading to the community. Read on to find out how.
Adolescents
Problem gambling is a common affliction among adolescents. It is characterized by behavior that is similar to gambling in adults, but fails to reach the level of disordered gambling in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or pathological gambling. Gambling disorders can cause a wide variety of social, emotional, and economic problems. In some cases, they can even lead to legal problems.
Various studies have shown that between five and ten percent of adolescents engage in gambling activities on a regular basis. Gambling can take many forms, including playing cards, betting on sports, and taking part in casino games. Although most jurisdictions prohibit gambling for minors, adolescents still participate in regulated and nonregulated forms.
Adults
Gambling among adults is a significant problem in the U.S., with over a quarter of all adults involved. In addition to high rates of problem gambling, this behavior is associated with other risk factors, including alcohol, tobacco use, and marijuana abuse. However, while gambling is a significant risk factor for problem behavior, it is not as common as marijuana. Below are some of the reasons that contribute to problem gambling. In addition, some risk factors that may contribute to problem behavior include alcohol abuse, substance use disorders, and low socioeconomic status.
The National Survey on Gambling Among Adults contains survey data from more than 20,000 adults in the U.S., including adolescents aged 14 to 21. The study’s sample was calculated by randomly dialing 25,919 telephone numbers. These numbers were drawn from cell phones and phone directories. Then, the surveyors interviewed the people who answered the phone. Among those who answered the phone, 15,223 said they participated in the survey. Of these, 2,118 people completed the survey.
Commercial establishments
A recent criminal case involving two commercial gambling establishments in Forsyth County led to the arrest of six people. Anonymous tips to the sheriff’s office prompted the investigation. Investigators found that people were playing video gaming machines and receiving cash payouts. At the first location, the authorities seized $6,500 in cash.
Commercial gambling establishments are illegal in Michigan. State law limits the number of gambling establishments and the amount of money that can be won, and regulates the games and the operators of those establishments. The Michigan legislature has repeatedly considered commercial gambling legislation. It has failed to pass, however, and continues to be in committee.
Prescription drug abuse
Gambling and prescription drug abuse often go hand in hand. The two are highly prevalent among recovering gamblers. Gamblers often look for a sense of high and may turn to prescription drugs and gambling to meet that need. Prescription drug abuse and pathological gambling can be a dangerous combination.
Both disorders share common symptoms, and gambling is often associated with depression. Depression is a debilitating mental disorder, and its symptoms include a change in appetite, lethargy, and unhappiness. While they are not easily cured, gambling and depression are often treated in conjunction.