by Hannah Rice Myers

Created on: November 20, 2011

Perhaps you do not believe purchasing a decorative lottery ticket promising a payoff of up to $20,000.00 constitutes a gambling problem. Or maybe it is the bright lights and the sounds of "cha-ching" at the nearest casino that draws you in. However, when you become dependent on these to improve your financial situation, or are willing to spend every last penny you have to possibly win "the big prize," you may have a gambling addiction. It is imperative to recognize the warning signs before this addiction destroys your life.

Jeanne Segal, M.D., of HelpGuide.org explains gambling has an effect on more than 15 million Americans, 3 million of whom are gambling addicts, or pathological gamblers. A mental-health problem, a gambling addiction progresses over time. MedicineNet describes it an impulse-control disorder, and estimates that 2 to 5 percent of those who gamble socially are at risk for diagnosis of a gambling addiction. Although pathological gamblers may realize their addiction is hurting themselves and those around them, they are unable to stop themselves from placing bets, even if the odds are against them, according to HelpGuide.org.

*Gender*

Although no clear-cut explanation exists, gambling addictions affect men and women differently. Misconceptions abound, with many believing more men than women are pathological gamblers-this is not the case. While men are prone to developing this addiction during teen years, women develop the addiction at higher rates; they comprise 25 percent of all individuals in the United States with a gambling addiction. A woman's addiction also tends to worsen more rapidly than a man's. Mayo Clinic adds women who develop a gambling addiction tend to suffer from depression, using gambling as a means of escaping their problems. Aside from when the addictions occur, there is a difference between what types of games each gender prefers and becomes addicted to. MedicineNet.com explains women lean toward slot machines and bingo, while men become addicted to table games such as blackjack and poker.

*Age*

A person's gender is not the only risk factor for a gambling addiction. This addiction can take hold at any age, and sadly, teens are at risk. The Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery states that 53 percent of teens who are children of compulsive gamblers have gambled within the last year, 7 percent admitting to having a significant gambling problem . Parental neglect and abuse from the parent who suffers

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