Gambling is risking something of value (such as money or personal property) on an event that is at least partly determined by chance, with the hope of winning a prize. It can be done through a variety of activities, such as playing card games or table games (such as blackjack and roulette), buying lottery tickets or scratch cards, betting on horse races or football matches, and gambling online.
Most people who gamble do so for entertainment and enjoyment, but some people take it too far and end up with serious problems. These problems can have financial, physical, psychological, and social consequences for the person who is gambling. They may also affect their relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. Depending on the extent of their problem, they may be at risk for suicidal thoughts and actions.
A person who is addicted to gambling can be treated for the addiction with cognitive behavioural therapy, which helps them to change their beliefs about betting and the way they feel and behave when they want to gamble. For example, someone with a gambling problem might think they are more likely to win than they really are, or that certain rituals will bring them luck, or that they can ‘chase’ their losses by betting more.
Several different models or theories of pathological gambling have been advanced, including a general theory of addictions, reward deficiency syndrome, behavioral-environmental reasons, and a moral model. These models differ in the ways they describe why some people develop an underlying problem with gambling, and they have implications for intervention strategies, research, public policy, and self-perceptions of pathological gamblers themselves.
There is a link between mental health and gambling, and those with depression or other mental health problems are more at risk of harmful gambling behaviour. Some of these people also use gambling to self-soothe unpleasant emotions or to unwind, and can end up in debt and other difficulties with their finances.
It’s important to remember that gambling is never a good choice, and there are many healthier and safer ways to relieve unwanted feelings, such as exercising, socialising with friends, or doing creative activities. If you’re struggling with a financial crisis, it’s worth speaking to StepChange for free and confidential debt advice. For help with a gambling addiction, try joining a support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step programme used by Alcoholics Anonymous. The organization also offers residential treatment and rehabilitation for those with severe gambling addictions. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment to work on overcoming the problem. They offer a range of therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy and relapse prevention. They can be especially helpful if you’re struggling to quit gambling completely. A key part of the program is finding a sponsor, which can be an ex-gambler who has experience staying clean and sober. It’s also worth getting in touch with your local council’s gambling helpline, which can provide a list of local groups and services.