Gambling Addiction is a psychological dependence to gambling, which has become a growing problem as the years progress. Compulsive gamblers lose their ability to control their betting behaviors, no matter what the consequences may be. Gambling addiction can affect all parts of an addict's life including their job, school, family and friends. In some cases, an addict may resort to crime in order to fulfill their needs.

On February 11, 2009, scientists studying MRI scans of the brains of gamblers indicated that gamblers who narrowly miss on a payoff get the same type brain activity that winning get. In addition, the same parts of the brain are activated that are thought to be involved in drug addiction.CBC Radio: Losers With Winners' Brains (February 21, 2009) University of Cambridge: Winning responses to near-misses (February 11, 2009)

Compulsive gambling is considered an impulse control disorder similar to OCD. Gambling addiction can affect any gender or age. In many cases, a gambling addict is hard to treat, since their problems tend to be hidden from others. The first step in treatment is admitting the problem, then one should seek help.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor for more information on Gambling Addiction.

• BoingBoing: Neuroscience of gambling (February 21, 2009)

• MedAu: Gambling Addiction Discussion

• CBS News: Women Addicted To Gambling (March 9, 2006)

• Helpstartshere: Tom's Story

• DailyStrength: Gambling Addiction Discussions

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