Gambling is any activity in which people bet or risk something of value (like money or possessions) based on an outcome that is purely random and out of their control, whereas creative effort and useful skills are not involved. It includes a variety of activities such as betting, fruit machines, bingo, casino games and even lottery tickets or scratchcards. Gambling is a popular recreational activity, but it can also lead to serious problems and have harmful consequences for the individual’s health and well-being.
It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of problem gambling, and seek help if needed. Problem gambling can have a significant impact on family life, work and social relationships. In some cases, it can cause financial difficulties, leading to debt and bankruptcy, and it may even be a factor in relationship breakdown. Problem gambling can also have a negative effect on an individual’s health and wellbeing, contributing to depression or stress, or making existing mood disorders worse.
A growing number of people are being diagnosed with pathological gambling, or gambling disorder, a recognised mental illness that can be treated like any other condition. It is essential that healthcare professionals understand the nature of gambling disorders, in order to recognise and diagnose them effectively.
There are many different reasons why people gamble, from the desire for excitement and thrills to trying to improve their lives in some way. Often, it’s a way to get away from the stresses and pressures of everyday life. People can become addicted to gambling if they have an underlying mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, or if they have been traumatised in their past, but the key is to find healthy ways to relieve stress and tension.
When people gamble, they are usually looking to win a prize or increase their wealth. This can include winning a prize on a slot machine, but it can also be money won or lost on a table game such as blackjack or poker, or money won or lost at a sporting event such as football accumulators. Generally, there is an element of skill involved in gambling as well, but this is not always evident.
As access to gambling increases, psychologists and other experts have become concerned that more and more people will develop a gambling addiction. They point to research showing that young people, particularly boys and men, are the most likely to participate in these newest forms of gambling, including online sports betting and video games with gambling elements.
Some people find it difficult to know when their gambling is getting out of hand, and they can hide their gambling habits from others. Others feel a strong need to bet more money, and can even start to borrow, steal or sell things to fund their gambling habit. If friends and family are worried about someone’s gambling, it is worth having a conversation with them to see what support is available. The sooner you seek help, the more chances there are of recovering from the effects of gambling.