Gambling addiction is a serious impulse-control disorder that shares many characteristics with substance use disorders. Like drug or alcohol addiction, it progressively worsens over time and can lead to severe personal and financial consequences.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a chronic brain disease affecting reward, motivation, and memory circuits. This dysfunction manifests in:

• Inability to consistently abstain
• Impaired behavioral control
• Intense cravings
• Diminished recognition of problems
• Dysfunctional emotional responses

Modern technology has made gambling more accessible than ever. With smartphones providing 24/7 access to online casinos and betting platforms, people can gamble from anywhere, making addiction risks higher and recovery more challenging.

Common signs of gambling addiction include:

• Neglecting basic needs and responsibilities
• Continuing despite negative consequences
• Needing increasing amounts to feel satisfied
• Lying or stealing to support gambling
• Unable to control or stop gambling behavior

Gambling addiction frequently co-occurs with other conditions:

• Substance use disorders
• ADD/ADHD
• Mood disorders
• Clinical anxiety
• Depression

Professional treatment options are available and effective for those struggling with gambling addiction. Recovery is possible with proper support and intervention.

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