Gambling is the wagering of something of value on a random event with the intent to win another thing of value. It requires three elements: consideration, risk and a prize. Gambling can be an enjoyable pastime for some people, but it can also cause serious problems for others. It can damage their physical or mental health, strain relationships with family and friends, affect their performance at work or studies and put them in financial trouble. In severe cases, it can even lead to homelessness.
Pathological gambling, or compulsive gambling, is an impulse-control disorder that affects a person’s ability to control their behavior and stop gambling, even when it has negative consequences. Often, the person will continue to gamble, even when they are broke or in debt. They will lie about how much they’ve lost or try to “chase” their losses (thinking they can get back what they’ve lost if they just keep playing). In addition, gambling can cause other symptoms such as depression or anxiety, and the person may spend more time gambling than with family or friends.
Many things can trigger a gambling problem, including genetics and environment. Some people, especially those with an underactive brain reward system, are more likely to have a gambling problem. It is also believed that some people are more likely to have a gambling problem if they grow up in a family with a history of gambling addiction, or if they were exposed to gambling as a child. Other factors include the availability of gambling venues, the culture of a community and its attitudes towards gambling, and the presence of alcohol or drugs in the person’s system.
There are many things a person can do to help themselves recover from a gambling problem, but the first step is to recognise the issue and seek treatment. They can seek out support from a GP, a trained therapist or a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous. It can also be helpful to seek family and relationship therapy, career or credit counseling and to join a 12-step recovery program based on Alcoholics Anonymous.
If you are concerned that someone close to you is struggling with gambling, talk to them about it. Try to avoid judgement and anger, and remind yourself that their addiction is not their fault. They likely do not realise how their behaviour is affecting them, and they are probably trying to cope in some way. For example, they might gamble to forget their worries or because it makes them feel more confident. This does not absolve them of responsibility, but it will give you a better understanding of their situation and why they do what they do. It is also important to set boundaries for yourself, such as not betting more than you can afford to lose and never chasing your losses. It is also a good idea to tip casino staff regularly, by handing them chips or saying “This is for me.” And never drink free cocktails!