The Impact of Gambling
Gambling is a popular form of entertainment, providing individuals with an adrenaline rush and the chance to win money. But for some, it can become a problem. If you have difficulty controlling your gambling or find it has a negative impact on your life, there are ways to get help and overcome the issue. Recognising the signs of harm is an important first step. If you have feelings of anxiety or depression, it’s also worth talking to a professional to get the support you need.
The impact of gambling can be seen at the personal, interpersonal and community/societal levels. The personal/interpersonal impacts are mainly non-monetary and include invisible individual costs, financial problems, health and well-being issues and the effects of gambling on family members. The external community/societal impacts are mainly monetary and include general costs, cost of problem gambling, and long-term cost/benefits.
In terms of the economic impact, gambling contributes to local economies in many ways, including job creation and increased consumer spending. However, it is important to note that not all communities benefit equally from these benefits. For example, casinos often pay minimal taxes to the government, resulting in less revenue for the community.
Many people gamble as a way to socialise and escape from everyday worries and stress. In some cases, this becomes a serious problem and can lead to addiction. The most common cause of gambling addiction is problems with impulse control, as it is difficult to resist temptation and to regulate one’s behaviour. Some people are also genetically predisposed to thrill-seeking behaviours, while others may have underactive brain reward systems. These factors can affect how a person processes reward information, controls impulses and weighs risk.
People may also develop a gambling habit as a result of cultural and peer pressure, and it is important to be aware of this in order to recognise a potential problem. For example, some communities have a strong belief that gambling is a ‘normal’ pastime, and this can make it harder for them to acknowledge when they are displaying symptoms of a gambling disorder.
Often, individuals will start by gambling with small amounts of money and then increase their bets in an attempt to recoup lost funds. This is known as chasing losses, and it can be extremely dangerous for the gambler’s health and wellbeing. In some cases, it can even lead to suicide or suicidal thoughts and feelings.
The first thing to do if you suspect you have a gambling problem is to reduce your access to money. This could be done by getting rid of credit cards, putting someone else in charge of your finances, closing online betting accounts and only keeping a limited amount of cash with you. It’s also important to avoid gambling venues if possible and seek out alternative recreational activities to fill the time previously spent on gambling. If you have social support, it is a good idea to talk about your problem with a trusted friend or family member and seek treatment.
