Gambling is an activity in which people risk something of value (money, property or possessions) on an event whose outcome is uncertain. Whether it’s playing poker, betting on football accumulators or buying instant scratch cards, gambling can be fun, but it’s important to keep in mind that it is an addictive activity and it can take a heavy toll on the lives of those who have an addiction.
Despite the negative connotations, gambling can also be a great way to relax and socialise with friends or family. However, if it becomes an obsession, it can negatively impact a person’s health and wellbeing, their relationships with family and friends, their performance at work and school and lead to serious debt. In extreme cases, it can even cause death.
Problem gambling can begin in adolescence, but it’s also common for it to start in adulthood. Some signs of problem gambling include losing control over money and spending more than you can afford. People with an addictive personality are more prone to developing problems with gambling, and it’s also more likely for men than women to experience it.
There are many ways to help someone who has a gambling addiction, and recognizing the problem is often the first step towards recovery. Some methods of treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy, as well as peer support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous. Others involve avoiding alcohol and drugs, making sure you’re not tired or distracted when gambling and keeping a record of your spending.
It’s important to know your limits when gambling online, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re worried about yourself or someone else, seek support immediately, whether that be from a loved one, a professional counsellor or the GamCare helpline.
If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s important to understand your triggers and learn some helpful coping mechanisms. For example, if you’re tempted to gamble, try distracting yourself by going for a walk or playing a different game. Alternatively, you can also make it harder to gamble by removing credit cards and other forms of payment from your home, putting someone else in charge of your finances, limiting your time at online casinos or closing your betting accounts.
Finally, don’t chase your losses – this is known as the ‘gambler’s fallacy’ and it’s a common trap that many gamblers fall into. It’s based on the false assumption that you are due for a big win after a few losses, so you keep betting in the hope of winning back what you have lost. This can spiral out of control quickly and lead to bigger losses, so it’s best to stop as soon as you have a set limit in place.