Gambling is the practice of risking money or something of value in order to win prizes through chance events, such as football matches, horse races, playing dice or cards games with another person in order to form combinations or win money by guessing or betting on outcomes that involve chance such as bingo scratchcards fruit machines or online gambling websites. Gambling may provide entertainment while at the same time become addictive leading to financial difficulties for individuals involved.
Some individuals are more vulnerable to gambling problems than others. Adolescents and young adults are especially at risk, while those experiencing mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety may also increase their odds of developing one.
People from families that have a history of gambling-related issues are at an increased risk, due to the influence of parents and siblings who gamble excessively as well as its potential addictive qualities that could lead to substance abuse issues.
All adults have bet on something at least once in their lifetimes, yet some individuals develop serious gambling issues – known as disordered gamblers – which put them at serious risk of more severe problems, even pathological gambling as defined in DSM-IV.
Many people dream of winning the lottery or becoming multimillionaires through gambling, yet this rarely occurs. Most gamblers spend more than they win; as well as being saddled with large debts that threaten employment or bill payment.
Gambling can provide hours of enjoyable entertainment. But it is essential that people understand its risks and how to control their behaviour; only bet what you can afford to lose and never place bets on events whose outcome remains unknown.
Setting realistic goals and minimizing financial risk factors are also key components to controlling gambling. This may involve not using credit cards and loans, avoiding gambling venues altogether and finding different recreational activities or hobbies instead. If you find that gambling has become out of control for you, seek advice from an accredited counsellor for assistance.
Gambling is a drug-like activity that impacts the brain. Like drugs, it produces dopamine responses similar to that produced by drugs; similarly, gambling should only be used responsibly by society at large and approved only when appropriate by physicians and pharmacists.