Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. The winter holidays are right around the corner. We often think of warm, cozy gatherings with family and friends, sharing our favorite foods, beverages, and seasonal treats.
But did you know that another holiday tradition some people enjoy is gambling? It’s no longer limited to casinos—gambling takes on many forms, and research shows that children as young as 10 have engaged in some type of gambling activity.
Here’s why this matters: gambling activates the brain’s reward system much like alcohol and other drugs do. Some people may be more prone to developing problems, and as gambling continues, it can overstimulate the brain’s reward system. Over time, this reduces the level of pleasure felt, leading individuals to gamble more in an attempt to recapture that initial excitement.
As the holidays approach, be aware of the warning signs of problem gambling, such as:
-Constant thinking about gambling or reliving a past gambling experience.
-Secretive behavior regarding gambling habits and defensiveness when confronted.
-Lying to family and others about the extent of gambling.
-Increasing bet amounts to achieve the desired excitement (high)
-Chasing losses with more gambling.
-Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling.
-Gambling to escape problems.
-Committing crimes to finance gambling.
-Jeopardizing or losing relationships, jobs, education, or career opportunities because of gambling.
-Relying on others to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling.
If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing a problem with gambling, reach out to 1-800-BETS-OFF from Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support. New Opportunities, Inc. is part of the Iowa Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Service System with services funded by the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant (SUPTRS BG). For more information on problem gambling please visit the Your Life Iowa website at yourlifeiowa.org or contact New Opportunities Inc. Behavioral Health Department for Problem Gambling treatment at 712-792-9266.
