Gambling is the wagering of something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value, where instances of strategy are discounted. It is a form of entertainment that can be fun and social, but like any behaviour it can cause harm when it becomes problematic.
The risk of gambling problems can vary widely from person to person. While there is no single type of gambling that is more addictive than others, the risk of problem gambling can be increased by:
Often people gamble as a way to make money or escape from stressful or difficult thoughts or feelings. But it is important to recognise that gambling can be dangerous and even a serious addiction, as it changes the reward pathway in the brain. This change means that you are no longer in control of your decisions and can no longer resist the urge to gamble, or feel out of control after losing money.
Research suggests that about 2.5 million Americans (1%) have a gambling disorder, defined as behavior that meets Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) diagnosable criteria for pathological gambling. However, many more have problem gambling behaviors that do not meet the diagnosis for PG, but still cause distress or damage. These are called subclinical gambling disorders.
Gambling is a complex behaviour, and it is not easy to recognize whether you have a problem. Some people may not experience any problems, while others find it hard to stop gambling once they start. This is because of a combination of factors, including brain chemistry and the environment that surrounds gambling.
People who have a gambling disorder are more likely to have other health problems, such as depression and anxiety. They also tend to use alcohol and drugs, which can further increase their gambling risks. Some may even engage in illegal activities, such as forgery and fraud, to fund their gambling habits.
While it is possible to overcome a gambling problem, it is essential that you get help as soon as you notice a problem. If you think you or someone you know has a gambling problem, it is important to talk about it with a trusted friend or family member or seek non-judgemental support from a GamCare helpline.
It is also helpful to replace gambling activities with other hobbies that will occupy your mind and keep you feeling happy. This could be rekindling an old hobby or trying something new, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises. This will prevent you from becoming isolated, which can be a common trigger for gambling. Remember that the more time you spend gambling, the more money you are likely to lose. Therefore, it is important to set a time limit for yourself and stick to it. Try not to chase your losses, as this will only lead to more financial stress and harm. Keeping track of your spending is also important, and it is helpful to have a calculator on hand to remind you how much you are spending.