Gambling involves putting something of value at risk on an outcome that is determined by chance and has the potential to yield a profit. It has existed in every society since prerecorded history and is a key part of many cultural customs and rites of passage. However, it is also an addictive activity, with around 5% of adults and adolescents developing gambling disorder.
In addition, it is often linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and there is a significant risk of suicide in extreme cases. For these reasons, it’s important to seek help for a gambling problem as soon as possible.
A large portion of gambling is based on chance, but there are certain things that can increase the likelihood of someone developing a gambling problem. These include an individual being exposed to gambling advertising or marketing, having a family member with a gambling problem, and having an increased sense of entitlement.
Some people find it difficult to stop gambling even when they’re losing money, increasing their bets in an attempt to win back their losses. In some cases, they may even borrow or steal money to gamble with. This can cause severe financial distress, which is one of the major causes of gambling problems.
People from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more vulnerable to gambling problems. They are less likely to have access to education and employment, and their financial situation is impacted by welfare benefits, making them more susceptible to the lure of quick profits. People who start gambling as teenagers are also more likely to develop a gambling problem. This is due to their age, peer pressure, and the accessibility of online gambling sites.
While the social aspects of gambling can make it an enjoyable pastime, it is important to remember that gambling is not a reliable way to make money. It can also be harmful to your mental health, causing feelings of guilt and shame. This can lead to other addictions such as alcohol and drugs. It can also affect your relationships with friends and family members, causing stress and tension.
If you think you have a gambling problem, it’s important to talk to your GP or a local NHS service. Various treatments are available, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps individuals change the way they think about betting and how it makes them feel. CBT can also teach people to manage their spending and stop them from using gambling as a distraction.
Getting professional help can be a life-saver, especially in extreme circumstances. In these cases, it can be helpful to get support from a charity such as StepChange or a local support network. It’s important to build a strong support network, which can include close friends and family, or peers who understand what you are going through. You can also join a gambling recovery program such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on a similar model to Alcoholics Anonymous.
