Gambling involves risking money on games of chance that involve a prize, such as scratchcards, slot machines and betting with friends. Gambling stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurochemical associated with reward and impulsivity. This may explain why many people find it difficult to control their gambling behaviours.
In addition, some gamblers are genetically predisposed to thrill-seeking behaviour and impulsivity. The changes in the brain that occur as a result of gambling are similar to those seen in drug users. The new DSM-5 definition of pathological gambling, which describes the compulsion to gamble as an addiction akin to substance abuse, recognises this.
Studies of the costs and benefits of gambling have generally focused on monetary impacts. However, there are social and interpersonal levels of cost and benefit that are less easily quantified. For example, when a gambler loses money and then returns the following day to try to recover those losses (which is known as chasing one’s loss), this can jeopardize a relationship or job opportunity. It may also cause someone to commit illegal acts such as forgery, fraud or theft in order to fund their gambling habit.
Counselling and peer support groups are available to help people with problem gambling. Some groups include Gamblers Anonymous, which is a 12-step program based on Alcoholics Anonymous, and SMART Recovery. People who struggle with gambling can also get help by strengthening their support network and finding alternative ways to spend their time. For example, they can try joining a sports team or book club, enrolling in an education course, or volunteering for a good cause.