Gambling is a behaviour in which people risk something valuable for a chance to win more money. It can take many forms and is not limited to casinos or racetracks; it can also occur in gas stations, churches, at sporting events or online. It has become increasingly accessible as technology advances, and is today available at all ages and in all corners of the globe.
While gambling can be a fun pastime, it can also cause problems and lead to addiction. The behaviour can have a detrimental impact on someone’s family, work life, health and relationships with other people. It can also affect their self-esteem and confidence. It’s important to recognise the signs of a problem and seek help, as it can be very difficult to break the habit.
There are many different causes of gambling problems, which vary from person to person. In general, the causes are a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Some examples include family history, personality traits, mental health issues and environmental factors. Some people are genetically predisposed to gambling, while others experience a life event that triggers the urge to gamble. Then there are those who are under excessive stress and feel like they need a way to relieve the tension.
For many people, gambling is a form of entertainment and can bring them together with friends. It can also provide some side benefits such as relaxation. However, for some individuals, it can become an addiction and cause serious damage to their lives and those around them. In extreme circumstances, it can even result in suicide.
Various studies have shown that gambling can have negative effects on individuals and society. These effects can be observed at the personal, interpersonal and community/societal levels (Fig. 1). The personal and interpersonal impacts are mostly non-monetary, while the societal level impacts can be categorized as general, costs related to problem gambling and long-term cost.
People who have a problem with gambling can often develop complex emotions such as stress, regret and guilt. They might even feel a sense of powerlessness and lack of control. These feelings can be particularly pronounced when they are under a lot of stress, or are struggling to cope with life’s problems.
Gambling can also cause psychological symptoms, such as feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, irritability, anxiety and depression. People with these symptoms can be more likely to try out illegal drugs, which can have dangerous and deadly consequences.
In addition, gambling can contribute to the development of substance misuse and mental health problems in people with existing conditions, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression or anxiety. It is therefore crucial that anyone experiencing these problems seeks help, including a GP or NHS support services. In some cases, people with gambling disorders might be tempted to self-harm or even attempt suicide. If this is the case, it is vital to seek help as soon as possible to reduce the risk of harm or death.