Effects of Gambling and What to Do If You Have a Gambling Problem
Gambling is an activity in which a person risks something of value, such as money or goods, on the outcome of an event that relies on chance. People can gamble by purchasing lottery tickets, playing casino games, or placing bets with friends. While gambling may seem harmless when done in moderation, for some people it can become an addictive and dangerous habit. This article discusses the effects of gambling and what to do if you or someone you know has a gambling problem.
It is estimated that more than two million people worldwide suffer from a gambling addiction. In addition to its social and economic costs, problems associated with gambling include poor family and romantic relationships, financial ruin, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is also believed that for every person who has a gambling addiction, an average of six people are affected by their behavior.
Problem gambling can affect any age or gender, but it is more prevalent among men. It can be triggered by mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, substance use, and manic phases of bipolar disorder. It can also be caused by unemployment, poverty, and stress. Additionally, children as young as seven can become addicted to video and mobile games that require micro-transactions and payments.
The Psychiatric Association defines gambling as a disorder when it involves preoccupation with gambling, lying to conceal or manage betting habits, and a tendency to chase losses. These symptoms can cause substantial psychological distress, damage interpersonal relationships and finances, and even lead to legal problems.
People who have a gambling addiction tend to have lower subjective well-being (SWB) and life satisfaction than those who do not have a problem. The present study uses structural equation modeling to examine the relationship between gambling and SWB. The results indicate that gambling has a strong direct negative impact on SWB of PGs, but that it does not significantly negatively influence the life domains of emotional well-being and relationships for NPGs.
It is important to recognize when a gambling behavior becomes problematic and to seek help for yourself or a loved one. In addition to addressing the root causes of the problem, it is essential to address any underlying mood disorders that are contributing to the gambling problem. In particular, treating depression, stress, and anxiety will improve a person’s ability to control their gambling behavior. Universal pre-commitment and self-exclusion systems are the most effective tools to support people who wish to reduce or stop their gambling behaviors. However, these strategies have not been well implemented in primary care settings, where a growing role exists for the evaluation of patients for gambling-related problems.
