For many people, gambling is a fun and harmless form of entertainment, and can be a way to socialise. However, for some individuals, it can become a dangerous and destructive habit. It can cause health problems, damage relationships and lead to financial difficulties, even bankruptcy. It can also contribute to depression, stress and substance abuse. Those who are struggling with problem gambling should seek professional help.
There are a number of things that can cause a person to develop an addiction to gambling, including a predisposition to thrill-seeking behaviours and impulsivity, and the way their brain processes reward information. There are also a range of environmental factors that can impact an individual’s risk of developing gambling problems, such as family history, peer pressure and the availability of gambling services.
Problem gambling is a complex and often hidden issue, but it can be devastating to those who suffer from it. It can cause a variety of mental and physical health issues, affect work or study performance, harm relationships and leave families financially devastated. It can even result in homelessness and suicide. According to Public Health England, more than 400 people take their lives each year after gambling-related issues.
Gambling is the act of betting something of value, such as money or possessions, on a random event with the intention of winning something else of value. It can be done in many ways, from placing a bet on a football match to buying a scratchcard. In order to gamble, a person must consider the likelihood of winning and losing, which is calculated using the odds. The higher the odds of an event occurring, the more likely a person is to win.
When gambling becomes a problem, it stops being about the enjoyment and profit, and becomes more about escaping from distressing life events or filling an unmet need for belonging. It can also be used to avoid unpleasant feelings, such as boredom or sadness, and people may try to conceal their activity by lying about how much they are spending or hiding evidence of their gambling.
Often, a person’s addiction to gambling is complicated and requires support from their family and friends. In some cases, this may involve therapy, which can help them recognise and overcome the underlying causes of their problem.
Choosing to seek treatment for a gambling addiction is not an easy decision, but it can be one of the most life-changing choices that you ever make. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, or a loved one, BetterHelp can connect you with a qualified therapist who can help. Take our free assessment, and be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours.