Gambling involves placing something of value, whether money or personal possessions, at risk on an uncertain event with uncertain outcomes with the intention of losing it for greater gain later. Gambling is a global industry with billions in annual revenue generated globally; for some individuals however it can become dangerously addictive; though its signs may not be as evident as with drugs or alcohol abuse.
Gambling takes many forms, from lottery tickets and online poker tournaments, casino games and sports wagering. People may also gamble using collectible items like marbles or Pogs as collectibles – making gambling a key source of income in low and middle income countries, with mobile phones providing increased access to digital marketing, sponsorship deals and promotional efforts that has seen rapid expansion.
Although most gamblers expect a positive outcome from gambling, only a minority actually win big. Studies estimate that for every person who wins large sums from gambling, six others experience harm due to it – relationship breakdown, family violence, financial distress and the development of illegal activities such as fraud or theft to fund it can all occur as side effects; harm can also affect those closely connected with gamblers such as children, spouses and parents.
Research by Brain Connections indicates that various factors may lead to problematic gambling. These can include one’s environment and culture, age and gender of their peers, availability of gambling products and information about harm caused by gambling; individuals experiencing stressful life events or living in areas of disadvantage are at higher risk. Furthermore, easy access to gambling opportunities combined with aggressive promotion campaigns for sporting events could promote or normalize such behavior further.
Gambling can have both financial and psychological repercussions. Gambling has also been linked to mental illness, suicidality and poverty due to diverted spending away from household necessities resulting in food insecurity and housing problems. Gambling can damage civil society through corruption and the erosion of civic institutions by illicit financial activity. Furthermore, it has the potential to negatively affect health by contributing to an increase in harmful alcohol and drug consumption. Gambling can inhibit work and study as well as lead to feelings of anger, anxiety, and depression – leading to poorer health, wellbeing, increased risks of early death as well as relationship disputes, unemployment loss and joblessness. Furthermore, gambling may become a gateway into criminality and the erosion of civil society.