Gambling involves risking something of value on an event that is determined at least in part by chance. In return, the gambler hopes to win a prize that is of equal or greater value. Most people think of slot machines and casinos when they hear the word gambling, but it can also involve playing bingo, buying lottery or scratch tickets, betting on office pools, or even placing bets on sporting events. Gambling is a huge international commercial activity, and it’s an important source of revenue for many governments.
Problematic gambling can have a profound impact on the person who engages in it and their loved ones. It is often used to cope with underlying psychological issues such as depression or anxiety. It can also be a way to distract from financial difficulties and provide a false sense of security. People who have these types of problems are often at high risk of suicide, so anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else’s mental health should seek help immediately.
A common methodological approach to examining the effects of gambling focuses on the impacts that are both negative and positive, separating them into two classes: costs and benefits. Benefits are categorized as those that contribute to economic activity, while costs are divided into three classes: financial, labor and health and well-being. The impacts of gambling can be observed at the personal, interpersonal and community/societal levels (Fig. 2). Personal level impacts influence the gamblers themselves, while external impacts influence others. Examples of these include gamblers’ increased debt and financial strain, which can affect their family members and friends. Moreover, the consequences of gambling can also be seen at the community/societal level, such as escalating into bankruptcy and homelessness.
Some of the negative effects of gambling are related to its addictive properties, and this is a significant concern for public policymakers and healthcare professionals. Gambling addiction is a serious illness that can lead to a number of different negative social, economic and medical issues, including suicide, financial crisis and poor health.
The biological causes of gambling addiction are complex, and it is important to understand how the brain responds to gambling to be able to treat it effectively. The reward system in the brain is affected by gambling, and it releases a feel-good neurotransmitter called dopamine when a gambler wins or loses. This can be a powerful motivation to continue gambling.
Behavioral therapy can help address the underlying issues that may cause problematic gambling. This can include psychodynamic therapy, which examines unconscious processes that influence behavior; group therapy, where individuals share their experiences with other people experiencing the same issue; and family therapy, which aims to educate families about gambling disorder and help them support their loved ones. These therapies can also be helpful for those who are struggling with financial difficulties caused by their gambling habits. For those who are struggling with money issues, StepChange provides free, confidential debt advice.