The Dangers of Gambling
Gambling is an activity where people place something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value. It can involve any activity that involves risking money or possessions on a chance-based outcome, whether it’s buying lottery tickets, playing a casino game or betting on football matches or horse races. It can also involve placing a bet on a business or political election. While there are skills that can improve the odds of winning, such as knowledge of card games or a good understanding of horses and jockeys, the ultimate outcome is still determined by chance.
While the majority of adults and adolescents who gamble do so without problems, a small subset develop gambling disorder. This is an addiction that can cause significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. Approximately 4% of individuals being treated for substance use disorders have gambling disorder, and up to 7% of people with schizophrenia have the condition (American Psychiatric Association, 1980, 1987, 1994).
Problem gambling can lead to depression, anxiety, poor health, financial difficulties, relationship difficulties and even homelessness. It can also cause people to steal and turn to illegal activities in order to gain money to fund their gambling habit, which can put their families at risk. Moreover, those who have problems with gambling often become secretive about their activity and lie to family members and friends in order to hide their behaviour and avoid exposing the seriousness of their situation.
The reasons why people start to gamble can vary. It might be because they enjoy the excitement of trying to win a prize, or it might be for social reasons, such as enjoying being part of a group of friends who are betting on football matches or horse races. Gambling can also be a way to relieve boredom, or it might help people to forget about a painful or stressful experience.
A number of factors can make someone more likely to develop a gambling problem, including their age, gender, family history and mental health problems. People with low incomes tend to be more vulnerable than those with higher incomes, and young people are particularly susceptible. In addition, people with personality disorders are more prone to developing gambling disorders, as are those who have been exposed to traumatic events in their childhood.
People who have a family member with a gambling problem can help them by setting boundaries in managing money, and by seeking therapy for themselves and their family. There are many types of counselling that can be helpful, such as marriage and family therapy, crisis counseling, and credit and debt management. It is also important to seek support from a support network of peers, such as a gambling-free peer support group. These are available in some areas, and you can find one through the NHS or charities that specialise in gambling issues. Lastly, it is important to learn healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings and to socialize, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, taking up new hobbies or practicing relaxation techniques.