Gambling is an activity in which people wager something of value, such as money or possessions, on an event with a chance of winning more money or a prize. It is a popular pastime with people from all walks of life, and it’s a way to socialise, get an adrenaline rush or escape worries and stress. However, gambling can be addictive and for some, it can cause serious problems with work, finances and relationships. This article explores the nature of gambling and how it affects mental health, including examining the differences between normal and pathological gambling and exploring treatment options.
The most common form of gambling is placing a bet on the outcome of an event. This could be a football match, a lottery draw or a scratchcard game. When someone gambles, they make a choice of what they want to bet on and then they match this to the ‘odds’ set by the betting company. The odds are usually shown as a percentage and determine how much money the person will win if they are correct.
Despite the risks, many people enjoy gambling for fun and some even have a habit of it. For most, this is not a problem, but for some, the urge to gamble can become a serious addiction that interferes with their daily lives. This is known as pathological gambling (PG) and it can cause significant psychological problems, such as feelings of helplessness, guilt and anxiety.
PG can also lead to financial difficulties and may cause the person to steal or use credit cards to finance their gambling. They might lie to family members or therapists in order to conceal their involvement with gambling and may risk losing a job, education or career opportunity because of their problem. They are likely to have irrational beliefs about gambling, such as believing they are more likely to win than they actually are or that certain rituals can bring them luck.
The good news is that PG can be treated. There are several different types of psychotherapy that can help, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and a 12 step recovery program based on Alcoholics Anonymous. CBT will examine the irrational thoughts and beliefs that drive the gambling behaviour, while a group like Gamblers Anonymous will provide support for those struggling with a gambling disorder.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help. Reach out to friends and family for support, and consider talking to a therapist or joining a peer support group. You can also try finding healthier ways to relieve unpleasant emotions, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends or practicing relaxation techniques. In addition, you can take steps to manage your finances and avoid lending money to a problem gambler. This can be especially helpful if you are worried about the impact that their gambling is having on your relationship or finances. You can also seek legal advice from a lawyer specialising in gambling law.