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The clinical term for gambling addiction is ludomania. There isn't a simple explanation for the origins of this addiction, as it stems from a mix of biological, psychological, and social elements, often accompanied by other conditions.
Considerations may also include existing mental health issues, the age at which you started gambling, and the significance of your early wins.
Biological Factors
Biological aspects are vital in understanding ludomania because some elements of this disorder mirror those found in other forms of addiction. Research by the Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery indicates that pathological gambling closely resembles substance addiction. Furthermore, evidence suggests that individuals with gambling addictions may exhibit more physical withdrawal symptoms compared to those addicted to substances.
Brain scans reveal that experiencing wins while gambling activates brain responses similar to those seen in cocaine users after consuming the drug.
Imbalances in neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, which is released during stress or excitement, and serotonin, associated with feelings of happiness, have been linked to compulsive gambling behaviors. Pathological gamblers often seek out gambling to stimulate the production of these essential chemicals.
Psychological Factors
Your attitude towards gambling can significantly affect your risk of developing an addiction. The ‘Gambler’s Fallacy’ serves as a prominent example.
The Gambler’s Fallacy is the erroneous belief that a sequence of independent occurrences can influence the results of future independent occurrences. Thus, if a random event has consistently occurred several times, people may mistakenly believe it will occur less frequently in the future.
The classic example of this fallacy took place in 1913, where it was given its alternative title, the 'Monte Carlo Fallacy.' During a game of roulette, the ball landed on black for 26 consecutive turns. Many gamblers lost huge amounts of money anticipating that this streak would inevitably end.
This fallacy often drives addicted gamblers to pursue their losses, under the illusion that their fortune will soon change.
Additional psychological factors consist of cognitive biases, such as the illusion of control, denial, mystical beliefs, and an inflated sense of confidence regarding future outcomes.
Moreover, it has been noted that high-velocity games, like slots, may provoke more problematic behaviors.
Social Factors
External conditions also contribute to ludomania. Stressful situations at work or home can exacerbate problematic gambling, although they may not be the sole triggers.
The social environment you inhabit can also elevate your risk. Gambling addiction may be perpetuated across generations within families, where younger members are more frequently exposed to gambling activities.
Ludomania is associated with various sources of distress, including depression, feelings of loneliness, significant life changes, and a lack of support from friends and family.
Comorbidity
Comorbidity refers to the existence of one or more additional health issues occurring simultaneously with the primary concern.
Several key factors markedly enhance the chances of developing a gambling addiction, including:
- Alcohol addiction
- Drug addiction
- Personality disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Anxiety disorders
Having any of these additional conditions can heighten your vulnerability to gambling addiction. Seeking guidance from a medical professional will yield a thorough diagnosis and appropriate treatment strategy.