While it’s not possible to completely cure gambling addiction, treatment for it is available. Gambling disorder is classified as a behavioral addiction in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This condition is similar to other substance-related disorders in clinical expression, brain physiology, and comorbidity. Despite these similarities, there are some important differences between gambling and substance-related disorders. Listed below are the major differences between gambling and substance-related disorders.
Responsible Gambling involves determining odds and knowing when to stop. Gamblers must expect to lose and budget their money accordingly. They should also avoid using credit cards and online betting accounts. It’s best to carry a limited amount of cash. Understanding why you gamble can also help you to change your habits. Responsible gambling involves knowing the odds of winning and losing and knowing when to quit. The more you know about gambling, the more likely you are to avoid it.
The global gambling industry is estimated to be worth $10 trillion a year, although the amount is likely higher because of illegal gambling. The largest form of gambling in the world is the lotteries. In the United States and Europe, state-licensed lotteries have grown rapidly, and organized football pools have become common. Other sports gambling is also legal. In Canada, the amount of legal gambling has increased significantly in recent years, and many governments prefer using the money generated by these games to support important initiatives.
