Gambling involves betting money or other items of value on a random event, with the goal of winning something of value. Some people develop a problem with gambling, and when this occurs it is known as ‘problem gambling’. Problem gambling can be very difficult to deal with and can affect a wide range of areas in a person’s life.
Many people gamble for entertainment, and enjoy it as a form of relaxation or even for socialising with friends. However, it is important to remember that gambling is not a good way to make money. It is not a ‘get rich quick’ scheme and the best way to avoid gambling addiction is to only gamble with money that you can afford to lose.
If you are concerned that you or a family member may have a gambling problem, the first step is to talk about it. You can do this with a trusted friend, family member or with a helpline. Many organisations offer support for those with a gambling problem, including online self-assessments and referral resources.
You can also help reduce the risk of problems by only gambling with disposable income and never using money that you need to pay bills or rent. It is also helpful to only gamble when you are in a calm and healthy state, as gambling can be extremely addictive.
The problem with gambling is that it triggers a chemical response in the brain, which causes excitement and euphoria. The feeling is caused by the release of dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter. This response can lead to dangerous behaviors, such as chasing losses and spending more money than you have available. It is also common for gambling to occur at inappropriate times, such as while working or whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It is also worth bearing in mind that the gambling industry is not a one-man show; there are lots of different people working in casinos, bookmakers and arcades. These people need to be paid, and they need a certain amount of profit to keep the business running. This is not meant to denigrate the work that they do; it is simply a reminder that casinos, bookmakers and arcades are not designed to save down on luck individuals.
If you are concerned that your loved one is developing a gambling problem, it is important to set boundaries in managing money; take control of their credit cards and review bank and credit card statements. It is also important to try and understand the motivations behind their gambling, such as for coping reasons, or to distract themselves from stress or boredom. It is also vital to recognise that gambling addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their race, religion, gender or social class. If you need more information or assistance, visit the gambling helpline or find a local organisation that offers support. You can also get help from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
