Gambling is an activity that involves placing an item of value, such as money or material goods, on an outcome whose probability of occurring cannot be assured. It is a form of entertainment that involves risk, and it can result in emotional and financial harm to those who gamble. It can also lead to conflict in relationships and feelings of anger, fear, shame or worry.
Gambling affects people from all walks of life, but some groups are at higher risk of developing gambling disorder. These include adolescents, veterans, aging adults, and those from Latino and Asian communities. Approximately 5% of adolescents and young adults who gamble develop a gambling disorder. People who are poor, especially those with low incomes, may be particularly susceptible to gambling addiction. This is because they have more to lose than those with more wealth.
For many people, gambling is seen as a fun and entertaining activity. It offers a chance to try out new things, and many find that it provides a sense of excitement and anticipation. Some gamblers have a high level of control and are able to stop when they are losing, but others become addicted and end up spending more than they can afford to lose.
Most people who gamble do so responsibly and enjoy the experience, but a small percentage develop a pathological gambling disorder that is recognised in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). For some, gambling becomes an escape from real-life problems such as boredom, depression, grief or financial hardship. In addition, many people use gambling as a way to socialise with friends and family.
Despite the widespread availability of gambling in most countries, research on its impact is limited. Many studies focus on economic impacts that can be easily quantified, while personal and interpersonal impacts are ignored – a trend that can be partially explained by the difficulty of measuring these effects. One approach to identifying these social impacts is to use quality of life weights, or disability weights, which can be applied to individuals.
For those who struggle with gambling addiction, there are a number of things that can be done to improve their situation. One is to talk about the issue with somebody who won’t judge them, such as a friend or family member. Another is to reduce the risks associated with gambling by not using credit cards, taking out loans or carrying large amounts of cash around. It is also important to find alternative ways to socialise, such as joining a club or finding other recreational activities. Lastly, it is helpful to set short and long term goals for yourself, to help you stay motivated and on track.
