Gambling is risking something of value on an event that relies on chance in the hope of realising a profit. It is a behaviour that has been around in virtually every culture since pre-recorded history. It is a high-risk activity and can involve a variety of emotions, some of which are harmful.
People who have a gambling disorder may be more vulnerable than others, but there are steps that can be taken to manage the condition. These include finding a support network, making healthy choices and seeking professional help. There are also a number of inpatient and residential treatment programmes, aimed at those who can’t stop gambling even with round the clock support.
A lot of gambling involves the use of ‘odds’ to predict the outcome of an event – this could be a football match, a scratchcard or any other type of game. These odds are based on how likely an event is to happen and are set by betting companies. If the bettor chooses correctly, they win. But if they lose, they will have lost their stake.
Many people who gamble do so because they want to feel a rush or a ‘high’. This is because gambling stimulates the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that produces a feeling of excitement and anticipation. However, the feelings of elation don’t last for long and when losses mount, a person can start to feel depressed, irritable or anxious. This can trigger a desire to gamble more in order to try and reclaim the money lost.
When gambling becomes problematic, it can cause serious problems in relationships, work and health. People who gamble can become secretive, lie to their family and friends or miss important events in their lives, which can strain relationships and lead to resentment. Gambling can also contribute to mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety and can increase the risk of substance misuse.
Financial difficulties can quickly mount up, leading to credit cards being maxed out and debts accruing – often with pay day loans that have a high interest rate and make the situation worse. People may even begin to steal or borrow from loved ones in an attempt to fund their habit.
It is often hard to recognise a problem with gambling because it can be so ingrained in our society. This is especially true for people who live in communities where gambling is common and a regular pastime. This can prevent people from seeking help and in extreme cases, it can also cause self-harm or suicidal thoughts. If this is a concern, it is vital to seek professional help as soon as possible. Support usually helps reduce suicidal thinking and there are a range of services available, including NHS support and Gamblers Anonymous.