Gambling is a risky activity where you risk something valuable, usually money, in order to win a prize. It’s an important part of many people’s lives, but not everyone can be a good gambler.
The first step in gambling is choosing the game you want to play – this could be a football match, or a scratchcard. The ‘odds’ set by the betting company will determine how much you’ll win if you win. In some games an advantage may be given to the dealer or banker (the person who collects and redistributes the stakes).
A gambling addiction can develop over time. It can lead to financial problems and stress in the lives of those who have a problem with gambling.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek help and support from a professional. Therapy can help you learn new ways to think about your problem and overcome it.
Symptoms of a gambling addiction vary from person to person, but can include:
Recurring thoughts of reliving past gambling experiences; thinking about ways to obtain money with which to gamble; feeling guilty or anxious about not having enough money to gamble; and relying on others to provide support.
Feelings of euphoria and heightened emotions are common, triggered by the brain’s reward system. It’s also possible to develop a gambling habit because of a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.
When it’s time to stop gambling, create boundaries that limit your spending and control how much you are willing to lose. This will help you stay focused on your goals, and prevent you from losing everything you have.