Gambling is the act of placing a bet on a random event with the intention of winning money or other items of value. It involves a risk and an expectation of gain, and people gamble for many reasons, including the excitement of winning, socialising with friends or even just escaping their worries or stress. However, gambling can become addictive and lead to financial problems, health issues and family tensions. If you suspect you have a gambling problem, there are ways to get help and advice.
Several studies have examined negative impacts of gambling, such as addiction and financial harms. These effects have been observed at the individual, interpersonal and community/society levels. However, they have been difficult to measure and quantify. For example, it has been challenging to assess how much a person’s gambling costs them in terms of their quality of life. This has been a particular challenge for non-monetary impacts, such as those related to the negative consequences of gambling that affect gamblers’ significant others and other members of their communities.
Positive impacts of gambling have also been observed. For instance, recreational gambling may provide leisure opportunities for older adults. It can also help individuals cope with stress, particularly in low socioeconomic groups, by boosting their self-concept and providing hope for a better future. It has also been suggested that gambling can serve as a substitute for drugs and alcohol, especially among younger adults.
While gambling can be a fun and entertaining way to spend time, it should not be seen as a substitute for other healthy activities. If you are looking for an alternative to gambling, consider strengthening your support network or taking up a new hobby. Other options include practicing relaxation techniques, exercising and spending time with friends who don’t gamble. In addition, you can join a gambling support group, such as Gam-Anon, which follows the 12-step recovery program for compulsive gambling.
In a recent decision, the Psychiatric Association officially classified pathological gambling as an impulse control disorder, alongside other conditions such as kleptomania, pyromania and trichotillomania (hair-pulling). This move is a significant step towards treating this condition and addressing its harmful consequences.
While some gambling activities have a low cost, it is important to remember that there is always the chance of losing more than you can afford to lose. It is therefore essential to never bet more than you can afford to lose and to stop gambling if you’re feeling stressed or anxious. In the case of financial worries, speaking to a debt adviser can help. You can find free and confidential debt advice at StepChange.