Gambling is a type of risk-taking in which an individual stakes something (money, goods or services) for the chance of winning something else. It can be a fun activity when used responsibly, but many people struggle with gambling and can become addicted to it. Often, the problem begins with a desire to win big prizes and is worsened by the social pressures of peer groups, family and work colleagues who also gamble. There are many signs and symptoms of gambling addiction, such as an increase in debt or a lack of interest in hobbies and social activities. People can be affected at any age, but younger people are more likely to develop a gambling problem because they may spend hours on video and mobile games that require micro-transactions and payments. In addition, people who live in rural or remote areas are more likely to have problems with gambling than those living in cities because they may be more isolated.
The most common causes of gambling problems are low incomes, a lack of self-control and emotional difficulties. Problem gamblers can be very secretive and lie about their gambling, even to their family members. They can also lose interest in other activities and become dependent on gambling as a way to cope with stress, depression and anxiety. In some cases, a gambling addiction can lead to severe financial difficulties, such as bankruptcy, homelessness and suicide.
A number of studies have examined the impact of gambling on individuals, their families and the wider community. The most commonly identified impacts are financial and labor, but social effects have been overlooked largely because they are non-monetary in nature and difficult to quantify. Despite this, some social impacts can have long-term implications and may be passed between generations.
Interpersonal and community/society level impacts have been the focus of many studies, but they are difficult to measure because they are based on subjective judgments. These impacts have been found to be significant and should be taken into account when assessing the costs and benefits of gambling.
It is important to recognise a gambling addiction as soon as possible because it can have a devastating impact on a person’s life and relationships. The good news is that treatment is available and the recovery process is very effective. There are several psychotherapy techniques that can be used to help with a gambling addiction, including psychodynamic therapy, which explores unconscious processes and how they affect your behaviour, and group therapy, where you discuss your feelings with others in a safe and supportive environment.
It is essential to have a strong support network and to try to reduce your exposure to gambling, for example by avoiding casinos and other gambling venues. If you find it hard to give up gambling, you can join a recovery programme such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modelled on Alcoholics Anonymous. Research has shown that it is possible to rebalance your brain chemistry and rebuild your life so that things other than gambling start to feel rewarding again.