For many people, gambling is an enjoyable pastime, providing a chance to socialise, win money and escape from everyday worries. However, for some it can become an addiction. When this happens, the gambler may be putting their health at risk and their finances could be in jeopardy. This can impact their family, friends, work and home life. It can also lead to depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Problem gamblers are more likely to commit crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement and theft, in order to fund their habit and are at an increased risk of suicide.
While it’s common for people to gamble, it can be difficult to know when gambling becomes a problem. This is because it’s often hidden by a person’s cultural values and beliefs about what it means to be a gambler, which can make them less aware of the issue. For example, some cultures place a greater value on the game of golf or on betting on sports events than on other forms of gambling, such as buying lottery tickets and scratchcards.
Gambling involves placing a bet on an event, which is determined at least in part by chance. The bet can either be made on the outcome of a sporting event, such as a football match, or on something more obscure, such as the results of a television show. When a bet is placed, the gambler’s brain releases dopamine, which makes them feel excited about winning. However, this neurological response can be experienced even when a gambler loses.
Approximately 2.5 million adults (1%) are estimated to meet the criteria for a gambling disorder. This is a significant increase since the introduction of the diagnostic tool, called the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual), in 1980, which changed the way in which pathological gambling was classified and described.
There are a number of signs that indicate a gambling problem, including:
Betting more than you can afford to lose. Using credit cards, loans or other sources of debt to fund your gambling. Lying to friends and family about your gambling habits. Spending more time gambling than with your loved ones. Having trouble sleeping due to gambling. Having an inability to concentrate or complete tasks at school or work.
There are a number of ways to get help for a gambling problem. This can include talking to your GP, attending a gambling support group and taking steps to improve your financial situation. This may involve setting boundaries in managing your money, avoiding online gambling and reviewing bank and credit card statements. It can also be helpful to seek help from a debt charity, such as StepChange. This organisation provides free, confidential debt advice. They can help you create a budget and set spending limits, offer debt management plans and recommend a debt counsellor if necessary. You can contact them on 0800 138 1111 or visit their website for further information. You can also visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau for further help and guidance on gambling problems.