Gambling is the betting of something of value, often money, on an uncertain outcome of a game or contest. It has been a part of human culture for prerecorded history and is an integral part of many traditional societies, customs, and rites of passage. For some people, gambling is more than just a fun and exciting activity; it can be an addiction.
The addictive nature of gambling is partly due to the brain’s natural reward system. When you spend time with loved ones, eat a delicious meal or exercise, the brain releases a chemical called dopamine that makes you feel good. When you gamble, your brain receives a similar reward – but unlike the healthy activities above, there is always a chance you will lose money. This can trigger a cycle of behaviour that leads to gambling addiction.
Problem gambling can have severe effects on a person’s life, including financial ruin and relationship strain. It can also affect mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. There are a number of warning signs that you should look out for. These include:
If you think someone is struggling with gambling, it is important to approach the issue carefully. You do not want to be judgmental or blame the person for their actions, but you should also be clear that you are concerned. Try to keep the conversation as productive as possible and focus on solutions, not just problems.
Many people with a gambling disorder are able to stop on their own, but others may need help. If you are worried about a friend or family member, there are a number of resources available to offer support and guidance. These include:
Trying to reclaim losses is a common sign of compulsive gambling. This type of behaviour is often known as ‘chasing the dragon’ and can lead to even larger losses. In addition to this, people with gambling disorders are often unable to recognise when they are losing.
While there is a wealth of research focusing on individual behaviour and addiction, there is a smaller but growing body of literature considering the role of social context in shaping gambling-related harm. A public health approach to gambling harms would benefit from this wider perspective.
Changing your environment can make it harder to gamble, and there are many strategies you can use. For example, removing cards from your wallet and putting them in a safe deposit box can reduce access to them. It is also helpful to separate your gambling funds from your other money. You can also set up bank accounts that require signatures for withdrawals and put valuables in a secure storage space. You can also set limits on how much money you can spend and create a budget for yourself to stick to. This will prevent you from going overboard or running out of money. Finally, you can try using a gambling self-test to see whether you have a problem. This nine-question quiz will assess your level of gambling behaviour.