Gambling is an activity where people stake something of value (money or possessions) on an event with some degree of uncertainty, usually in the hope of winning something else. This activity can range from buying a lottery ticket to betting on a football match to playing scratchcards. Some forms of gambling are legal, while others are illegal. It has been around since ancient times and is a widespread social activity.
In recent years, researchers have refined their understanding of gambling and what makes some people vulnerable to problems with it. They now agree that it is possible to become addicted to gambling in the same way as a person can get hooked on drugs. For example, the chemical changes that occur in the brain when a person takes risks and hopes for big rewards are very similar to those that happen in a drug addict’s body.
The research also shows that people who experience other mental health difficulties, such as depression or anxiety, are more likely to have a gambling problem. For example, 4% of people who are being treated for substance misuse also have gambling disorder and up to 7% of psychiatric inpatients have a gambling problem. It is also important to consider the role of culture and how it influences a person’s attitude towards gambling. Some cultures are very supportive of gambling while other cultures do not view it as a desirable pastime.
Research into the impact of gambling has traditionally focused on monetary costs and benefits, as these are easily quantifiable. However, this does not take into account a number of other aspects of the harm caused by gambling. In particular, social impacts have been largely ignored. These include impacts on a personal level, impacts on interpersonal relationships and those that are societal/community based and may have a long-term impact.
The good news is that there are things that you can do to help someone you know who has a gambling problem. For example, you could talk to them about their gambling habits and encourage them to seek professional help if necessary. You could also reduce their financial risk factors by not allowing them to carry credit cards or large sums of money with them, and stop them using gambling venues as social settings. You can also try to fill in the void that gambling has created by finding new activities or hobbies that they will enjoy.
