Gambling is an activity where people risk money or something else of value in the hope of winning more money or a prize. It can take many forms, from betting on horses and slot machines in a casino to online poker or DIY investing. While some forms of gambling are legal and regulated, others are not, and they can cause harm. Some people are at a greater risk of developing a gambling disorder than others, such as adolescent girls, veterans, and aging adults. The use of drugs or alcohol may also increase the likelihood of developing a gambling disorder.
Gambling has a long history, from Mississippi riverboats in the Wild West to Las Vegas casinos and keno in modern times. It has fluctuated in popularity and was outlawed for a time in the early 1900s. It has recently become popular again, and the industry is growing rapidly.
A person’s brain chemistry changes when they gamble, and this can lead to problems. When people gamble, the reward systems in their brains are overstimulated and they begin to need more and more to feel pleasure. They may be at a higher risk of gambling addiction if they have a family history of it, or if they have other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, there are steps you can take to help. It is important to talk about your concerns with someone who won’t judge you. This could be a friend, family member or professional counsellor. You can also try to reduce financial risk factors such as using credit cards, taking out loans and carrying large amounts of cash. Find an alternative recreational activity to replace gambling, such as a hobby or sport, and avoid going to places where you might be tempted to gamble.
The link between gambling and suicide is strong, and problem gamblers have the highest suicide rate of any group. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call 999 or visit A&E immediately.
There is a growing role for primary care physicians to evaluate their patients for addictive disorders.1,2 This includes assessing their gambling behaviors for signs of pathological gambling.
Often, the first warning sign is that your gambling is getting out of control is when you’re spending more and more time on it and are gambling longer than you intended to. You might also spend more time on it when you’re stressed or upset. Other warning signs include being irritable or aggressive when gambling, or having uncontrolled urges to gamble. It’s also worth considering whether you’re gambling to escape worries, boredom or trouble, or as a way to celebrate good times.