Do You Have a Gambling Problem?
Whether it’s betting on the outcome of a football match or buying a scratchcard, gambling involves risking something of value in the hope of winning. But there’s more to gambling than just winning money – and it can be dangerous. People gamble for a variety of reasons, including socialising, getting an adrenaline rush or escape from problems or stress. But if an individual’s gambling gets out of control, it can have serious consequences for them and their family or friends. If you’re concerned about a loved one, there are things you can do.
A person is considered to have a problem with gambling if they:
Is preoccupied or obsessed with gambling (e.g. thinking about past gambling experiences, planning or handicapping future ventures, or finding ways to get money with which to gamble). Often returns to gambling after losing money and attempts to win back the losses (“chasing” losses).
Many states run lotteries or similar state-run gambling operations in order to raise revenue for public services such as education or health. But these gambling schemes can be morally problematic because they often target vulnerable groups. These include low income groups and young people, who are more likely to develop a gambling disorder than adults, as well as those with mental illness. Some studies also suggest that people with lower levels of educational achievement are more likely to gamble than those with higher levels of education, as they may have less to lose.
Gambling can take on many forms, from sports betting and lottery games to online casinos and virtual reality gambling. The most common form of gambling is using a computer or mobile phone to place bets on the outcome of an event that relies on chance and/or skill. Unlike other types of casino games, online gambling is accessible 24/7 and can be very addictive.
Although some people are predisposed to addiction, anyone can develop a gambling problem. Genetics, environment and culture can all influence how a person processes reward information, controls their impulses and weighs risk. In addition, some cultures consider gambling to be a normal pastime and may make it difficult for individuals to recognize that they have a problem.
It’s important to recognise the signs and symptoms of gambling problems in yourself and others, so you can seek help. There are many organisations that offer support, assistance and counselling for people who have gambling problems. You can find out more about these by visiting the website of the National Gambling Helpline or by speaking to a trusted friend or family member. You can also attend a local support group for people with gambling problems or a self-help family support service such as Gam-Anon. Many physical activities are also known to be effective in reducing problematic gambling, so it’s worth trying these as a way of improving your wellbeing. You can also postpone gambling if you’re feeling the urge to gamble and see if it passes or weakens.
