Recognising a Gambling Problem
Gambling is an activity where a person puts something of value at risk in the hope of winning something in return. This can include putting money on the outcome of a football match, horse race or lottery draw. It can also include scratchcards and video poker. It can also involve placing a bet on business, insurance or the stock market. Gambling is not illegal and it can be fun, but it can also cause harm, including psychological and financial. It is important to know the risks of gambling and how to recognise a problem.
People gamble for many reasons – from the excitement of winning big to changing their mood. It can be a form of escape from stress, a way to socialise or even as a way to relieve boredom. But, whatever the motives, it is important to remember that a person with a gambling addiction may not be in control of their actions and is unlikely to make good decisions.
Problem gambling is often difficult to recognise because the behaviour can be hidden. The person may spend time gambling alone and try to hide evidence of their activity. They might lie to friends and family about how much they are spending, or they may even begin to steal money to gamble with.
It is also worth considering that people with a gambling problem often find it hard to stop, even when they are losing. This can be because of the way their brains react to gambling. Research has shown that there are differences in the way the brains of problem gamblers and non-problematic people process reward information, control impulses and weigh risk.
People with a gambling disorder are at increased risk of suicide, which is one of the leading causes of death for people with mental illness. They are also at greater risk of substance misuse, depression and anxiety, which can lead to further gambling problems. This makes it very important to seek help if you think that you are or someone you love is gambling too much.
There are a number of things that you can do to help prevent gambling problems, such as setting limits on how much you are prepared to lose and making sure that gambling is not taking over your life. It is also a good idea to try and do other activities that are enjoyable, such as exercising, cooking, reading or spending time with friends.
If you are concerned about a friend or family member’s gambling, it is a good idea to speak to a professional about local referral resources such as certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs in your area. It is also a good idea to set boundaries around managing finances, take control of the household budget and review bank and credit card statements to see how much is being spent on gambling. It is also important to remember that your loved ones don’t choose to have a win and are not to blame for their gambling addiction.