Gambling involves risking something of value (money, possessions or other items) on an event that depends on chance. It can be anything from betting on a football match to playing a scratchcard. If the gambler predicts the outcome correctly, they win money. If they lose, they forfeit the money that they invested in the event. Gambling has been a part of human societies for millennia, with evidence from cave paintings and from gambling paraphernalia found in archaeological sites. It is considered a recreational activity by many people, but there is also a small minority who develop problems with it. It is a known cause of family disharmony and has been linked to substance misuse, financial crises, depression and suicide.
Many people with gambling disorders experience difficulties with other aspects of their lives as well, including work and relationships. They often find it difficult to recognise a problem and ask for help, particularly if their community considers gambling as a ‘normal’ pastime and does not view it as a harmful activity.
Those with serious problems may start to neglect their families and jobs, lie to loved ones or borrow money. Debts can accumulate quickly, and high interest rates make it more difficult to repay them. Eventually they can feel trapped, and may take drastic measures like stealing or committing fraud to escape their debts.
A good way to prevent a problem with gambling is to strengthen your support network and find new interests. Try joining a book club or sports team, taking an education course, volunteering for charity, or finding a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous.