Gambling is an activity in which you put something of value at risk in the hope of gaining more. It can include anything from playing games of chance to betting on sports or events. There are many different types of gambling, including casino games, lottery tickets, and online gaming.
Gambling can become a problem when you lose control of your spending or have trouble stopping gambling. It can also affect your relationships, job, and family life. Problem gambling can also cause mental health problems like depression and anxiety. It’s important to seek help if you think you have a gambling problem or know someone who does.
What is a Gambling Disorder?
A gambling disorder is a type of impulse-control disorder that’s characterized by difficulty controlling your urge to gamble. It can cause significant harm in your life, such as affecting your work and home life, causing debt, and putting you at risk of legal action.
Some people are more at risk for developing a gambling disorder than others. Those who have low incomes and those who start gambling at a young age are especially vulnerable. Adolescents, veterans, aging adults, and those from Latino or Asian communities are all at increased risk for gambling disorders.
It’s also difficult to recognise a gambling problem in yourself or a loved one. Often, people hide their gambling habits and lie about how much they’re spending. They may even try to win back the money they’ve lost by increasing their bets. They can also develop a false sense of confidence by winning a few times, leading them to continue gambling.
You can help by educating yourself and your loved ones about gambling and the warning signs. There are many organisations that offer support, advice, and counselling for people who have a gambling disorder. These include the National Helpline and Gamblers Anonymous, a peer-support programme modelled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Other ways to get help for a gambling disorder include cognitive behavioural therapy, group therapy, and family therapy.
It’s also helpful to strengthen your support network and find healthier ways to relieve boredom or stress. Consider joining a book club, exercising, socialising with friends who don’t gamble, or volunteering. You can also try stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. If you’re worried about a loved one, learn to recognise their mood changes and talk to them about it. This can help you avoid blaming them and make it easier to reach out for help. Lastly, remember that gambling is often used as a way to escape worry, boredom, or trouble. So, don’t take it personally if your loved one is always gambling to forget their worries or celebrate their good fortune.