Nationally Certified Fitness Coach –

Problem gambling, or ludomania, is an urge to continuously gamble despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop. Problem gambling often is defined by whether harm is experienced by the gambler or others, rather than by the gambler’s behavior. Severe problem gambling may be diagnosed as clinical pathological gambling if the gambler meets certain criteria. Pathological gambling is a common disorder that is associated with both social and family costs. “Pathological gambling” is the most severe form of problem gambling and has been recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as a disease since 1980. Gaming or gambling is supposed to be for fun, for entertainment.

Teenagers are 3 to 4 times more likely to become problem gamblers than adults. 90% of High School students have gambled at least once in the last year. In the USA ages 14-21, 2.1% struggle with Problem Gambling, and another 6.5% are at risk. Every year, 2% -3%, 2M U.S. adults are estimated to meet the criteria for disordered gambling, while another 4-6M individuals are problem gamblers at risk for serious addiction consequences. Men make up 2/3 majority of Problem Gamblers.

In the United States, a report by the National Council on Problem Gambling showed approximately one in five pathological gamblers attempts suicide. The Council also said suicide rates among pathological gamblers are higher than any other addictive disorder. The Suicide rate is higher for people who gamble, and for their families. Those with mental health issues are at an even greater risk. Those addicted to illicit drugs and alcohol are also at greater risk.

Even the tough economy that we’re all living with doesn’t stop gambling. The hope of the big win keeps the rich and the poor gambling. The recent closings of The Revel Casino and The Showboat casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey show that the casino industry isn’t doing that well. People have less money for entertainment. The pathological gamblers won’t slow down because of the economy. In fact, it may even make the situation more extreme.