The Dangers of Gambling
Gambling is the wagering of something of value on a random event, where instances of strategy are discounted. It is often done with money, but it can also be undertaken with items of value that are not currency, such as marbles, Pogs (small discs) or Magic: The Gathering collectible game pieces.
Gambling can be dangerous, and many people who gamble become compulsive gamblers, a condition defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by the American Psychiatric Association as a disorder characterized by recurrent gambling-related behaviour that causes significant distress or impairment. Problem gambling can occur in anyone, and it affects men and women equally, people of all races, ages and backgrounds.
A number of factors contribute to problem gambling, including genetics and environment. In some cases, gambling is used as a coping mechanism for problems such as stress, depression, boredom or grief. Other reasons people turn to gambling include financial difficulties, relationship issues and other life problems. The media also frequently portrays gambling as glamorous, sexy and fashionable, leading some people to believe that they will be able to solve their problems by winning big.
There are several warning signs that indicate a person may be prone to developing a gambling problem. These include secretiveness about gambling, lying to others, hiding gambling money, chasing losses and making illogical decisions. In addition, a person with a gambling problem may experience withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, cravings and difficulty concentrating.
If you are concerned that you have a gambling problem, there are some things you can do to help yourself. Try to talk about your gambling with someone you trust who won’t judge you. This could be a family member, friend or professional counsellor. Reduce risk factors, such as the use of credit cards and taking out loans, carrying large sums of money with you and using gaming venues for socialising. Also, consider reducing your spending and replacing it with other activities, such as recreational hobbies or activities that require more physical effort.
If you find it hard to stop gambling, try to set time limits and stick to them. It’s easy to lose track of how long you have been gambling, and research shows that the more time you spend gambling, the more money you will likely lose. Also, don’t drink too much at the casino – those free cocktails are there to lure you into gambling, and it is very easy to get carried away. Also, never bet more than you can afford to lose – this is called the gambler’s fallacy and will only result in more money lost. Finally, if you are having trouble stopping gambling, consider joining a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous which is based on the 12-step recovery program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Family therapy and marriage, career and credit counselling can also help you work through the specific issues that have led to your problem gambling. You can also look into inpatient or residential treatment programs for problem gambling.
