Gambling is an activity where you risk money in the hope of winning it back. It can be done on the internet, in casinos or at sports events. It is a popular pastime for many people and is used to socialise, get an adrenaline rush or escape worries and stress. However, for some people it can become a problem that affects their mental health. People can get treatment, join support groups and try self-help tips to manage their gambling.
The brain has a natural reward system that releases the neurotransmitter dopamine when you win. This can trigger an addictive cycle where you continue gambling in the hope of winning more, despite the negative effects on your life. It is thought that some people may be genetically predisposed to thrill-seeking behaviours and impulsivity, which can make them more vulnerable to developing a gambling problem. It is also believed that some people have an underactive brain reward system, which can cause them to struggle to control their impulses and weigh risks.
People who have a gambling problem are at high risk of depression and anxiety. They are also at increased risk of suicide. These risk factors are linked to the way in which gambling can negatively impact a person’s quality of life, including relationships with friends and family, work performance and health. People with gambling problems are also at risk of financial difficulties – they may spend more than they can afford to lose, take out loans or use credit cards to fund their gambling activities, and they are often at increased risk of losing their home or job through debt or other forms of financial hardship.
Some people do not realise they have a gambling problem until it has serious consequences, such as a court summons for non-payment of debt or repossession action on their home. It is also common for partners, friends or family members to feel excluded when a loved one becomes preoccupied with gambling. Occasionally, this can lead to violence and even murder.
It can be difficult to ask for help, as some cultures consider gambling a normal pastime. This can make it hard to recognise a problem, and it can be particularly challenging to seek help when you are struggling with addiction.
Many people with a gambling problem are working, and some of them are in leadership positions in the workplace. They can develop poor work performance and miss important meetings, which can damage their professional reputation. They are also at higher risk of stealing or falsifying company records to finance their gambling habit.
It is important to talk about your gambling habits with someone you trust who won’t judge you. This could be a friend or a professional counsellor. You can also reduce your access to money by removing credit cards, closing betting accounts and keeping only a small amount of cash on you at all times. It can be helpful to find new hobbies and recreational activities to fill the time and energy formerly spent on gambling.
