Problem Gambling
Gambling involves putting something of value (money, property or possessions) on the outcome of an uncertain event, often with the intention of winning something else of value. It ranges from the purchase of lottery tickets by people on low incomes to sophisticated casino gambling by wealthy individuals, either for profit or as a pastime. In some cases, the behaviour may result in problems. Problem gambling can negatively impact a person’s quality of life and relationships, harm their mental and physical health and work or study performance, lead to bankruptcy, legal trouble and even suicide. It can also impose substantial economic costs on families, businesses and communities.
While some people gamble for fun, others become addicted to gambling. This is called pathological gambling and is recognised as a mental health disorder, in the same way that addictions to substances such as alcohol or heroin are. A combination of factors including genetic or psychological predisposition, dramatic alterations in the brain’s chemical messaging and the allure of winning money can trigger a person’s downward spiral into pathological gambling.
It’s important to recognise that you have a problem, and get help, before things go too far. But it’s equally important to understand what can make a gambler’s recovery difficult. For example, some people struggle to stop gambling because they have underlying mood disorders such as depression or anxiety that can trigger gambling or worsen it. Others are triggered to gamble by boredom or stress, and use it as a way of self-soothing and socialising.
Research shows that when people gamble, their brains produce dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter, which causes them to feel excited. However, people who have gambling problems find that their brains continue to produce this reward, even when they’re losing, which can reinforce the urge to gamble. This is why it’s so hard for them to walk away from a game, and they tend to be secretive about their gambling habits, afraid that others won’t understand or will be disappointed by the truth.
It’s also common for gamblers to lie about their gambling, especially when it comes to how much they’re spending. This can cause tension in relationships and make it more difficult to break the habit. If you’re struggling to quit, try talking about it with someone who won’t judge you, and seek professional counselling if necessary. It’s also helpful to reduce your risk by not using credit cards, taking out loans or carrying large amounts of cash around with you. And start finding healthy ways to relax and socialise, such as exercise, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or joining a book club. BetterHelp is an online service that matches you with accredited, licensed therapists who can help with mood disorders and gambling addiction.
Gambling involves putting something of value (money, property or possessions) on the outcome of an uncertain event, often with the intention of winning something else of value. It ranges from the purchase of lottery tickets by people on low incomes to sophisticated casino gambling by wealthy individuals, either for profit or as a pastime. In…