If you’ve watched TV or been on a streaming service lately, there’s a good chance you’ve seen advertisements for sports betting apps. From DraftKings to FanDuel and more, these platforms have proliferated since the 2018 supreme court ruling that allowed states to make their own rules for placing bets on sports. Despite this latest entry into the betting landscape, though, different forms of gambling have been well established as long as 5,000 years ago.
The world of gambling, with its flashing lights and alluring jackpots, can offer excitement and entertainment for a wide range of people. Yet, for some, the pursuit of the big win through games of chance can quickly lose its luster and devolve into compulsive behavior with profound effects on the mind, body and spirit.
What does this transition actually look like, and what are the impacts of gambling on our mental health? Read on to find out.
Why Is Gambling So Popular?
A recent survey found that 62% of Americans reported gambling in the previous 12 months. What makes gambling so compelling? On a neurological level, the thrill of taking risks and the anticipation of a potential win release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, creating a natural high. This dopamine rush is similar to the feelings experienced when eating chocolate or engaging in other enjoyable activities.
Gambling also provides an escape from everyday life, offering a temporary and engaging distraction from stress and routine. The social aspect of gambling, whether it’s playing cards with friends or participating in community bingo, also contributes to its appeal by fostering camaraderie and a sense of belonging. Moreover, the media often portrays gambling in a glamorous way – think about the glistening lights of Las Vegas or the intrigue of high-stakes cards in James Bond movies – associating it with high society and excitement.
The Potential Mental Health Benefits of Gambling
Can gambling be good for mental health? According to several studies, the answer is yes – with some caveats. For many people, gambling can serve as a source of enjoyment, relaxation and social connection. Social gambling—such as playing cards with friends or participating in community bingo—can foster camaraderie, mental stimulation and a sense of belonging. Mild to moderate gambling in a social context has been associated in some studies with positive emotions, excitement and even improvements in cognitive functioning among older adults.
Engaging in recreational gambling activities can also offer a temporary escape from everyday stressors. For some, the structured environment of regulated gambling venues can offer a safe and supervised setting to enjoy entertainment and social interaction. It is crucial, however, to understand your motivations for gambling and your limits – not only financial but emotional as well – and seeking help if gambling ever ceases to be a source of healthy enjoyment. This is when gambling addiction enters the picture.
Is Gambling Addictive?
As with many other mental health concerns, gambling disorder is more than a matter of willpower; it is a diagnosable behavioral health condition. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately 5 million Americans meet the criteria for gambling disorder in a given year, while another 4 to 6 million are considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems. It shares characteristics with substance use disorders, including cravings, tolerance and withdrawal. Those who struggle often describe an inability to stop gambling despite mounting negative consequences: strained relationships, financial hardship, employment issues and emotional distress.
Individuals may find themselves chasing losses, lying to loved ones, or sinking deeper into isolation. The cycle is self-reinforcing—gambling offers momentary relief from stress or sadness but ultimately contributes to deeper emotional turmoil. This interplay between gambling and mental health forms a vicious circle that can be difficult to break without compassionate, informed intervention.
Who Is Most at Risk of Gambling Addiction?
Anyone can experience gambling disorder, regardless of age, gender identity and income; however, people from certain backgrounds are over-represented in the data. Young people, men and people with lower incomes tend to be more likely to experience gambling disorder, partly due to high risk tolerance and having more to gain from a positive outcome of their bets.
Research also reveals a strong connection between gambling addiction and other mental health concerns. Individuals living with bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or substance use disorders may be more likely to develop problematic gambling behaviors. Studies estimate that over 70% of people with gambling disorder also experience depression, 60% of people with gambling problems have a co-occurring substance use disorder and up to 50% report symptoms of anxiety. For these individuals, the challenge is twofold: addressing gambling behaviors while supporting overall mental health.
Gambling and Suicide
Among the most sobering aspects of the connection between gambling and mental health is the heightened risk of suicide. Some studies indicate that up to 81% of individuals with gambling disorder have had thoughts of suicide, and up to 30% have attempted suicide, both higher than the general population. The pain of financial loss, shame and a sense of hopelessness can conspire to create a crisis.
Families and support networks are often unaware of the depth of despair felt by someone struggling with gambling. Warning signs may include talk of feeling trapped, withdrawal from social connections, or drastic changes in mood and behavior. It is vital that we approach these moments with understanding, not judgment.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, the national Mental Health Lifeline, for confidential, immediate support.
Am I Addicted to Gambling?
According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), you may be experiencing a gambling addiction if at least four of the following have happened to you over the past year:
- Frequent thoughts about gambling, such as reliving past gambling or planning future gambling.
- Need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the desired excitement.
- Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back on or stop gambling.
- Restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
- Gambling when trying to escape from problems or negative mood or stress.
- After losing money or an item of value by gambling, feeling the need to continue in order to get even. (This is referred to as “chasing” one’s losses.)
- Often gambling when feeling distressed.
- Lying to hide the extent of gambling involvement.
- Losing important opportunities such as a job or school achievements or close relationships due to gambling.
- Relying on others to help with money problems caused by gambling
It’s important to note that there is no set amount of money that has to be lost for gambling to be considered an addiction. The real indicator, as reflected in the points above, is a series of impacts on relationships, employment, health, sense of financial well-being and any other area of life.
The impact of gambling addiction radiates outward, affecting families and support networks. One study found that each person with a gambling problem negatively affects the lives of about 7 to 10 other people, including family members, friends and colleagues. Children in households marked by gambling-related distress may experience anxiety or behavioral issues. The stigma surrounding gambling problems often prevents open conversations, delaying help-seeking and amplifying suffering.
Can Gambling Addiction Be Cured?
Recovery from gambling disorder is possible. Evidence-based approaches—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), peer support groups like Gamblers Anonymous and integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders—can help individuals regain control and rebuild their lives. According to follow-up studies, up to 50% of those who complete treatment programs report significant improvements in both gambling behaviors and mental health.
How to Get Help for Gambling Addiction
If you or someone you know needs help for gambling addiction, you are not alone. For immediate, confidential, 24/7/365 support, call, text or chat 988, the Mental Health Lifeline.
Your experts at WellPower are also here to help. Give us a call at (303) 504-7900 to speak with the kind, professional staff at our Access Center for more information. We gladly welcome Medicaid members, as well as people with Medicare and a range of commercial insurance plans. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, connecting individuals to resources and empowering families to be part of the journey.