Gambling is an activity where you stake something of value, such as money or goods, on an event with a random outcome. This can include betting on sports events, playing games like roulette and slots, buying scratchcards or using the lottery. It can also involve online gambling.<\/p>\n
Gambling can have some positive effects for some people, but it\u2019s important to recognise when your gambling has a negative impact on your life. If you are struggling with your gambling, it\u2019s vital that you seek help and support as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
Many people have gambled without experiencing harm, but a small number of people develop gambling disorder \u2013 a serious problem that affects their health and wellbeing. Some people who have a gambling addiction find it hard to admit that their problem is serious and may hide their behaviour or lie about how much they are spending on gambling.<\/p>\n
A gambling addiction can be triggered by a variety of factors, including: an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a poor understanding of the odds of an event, the use of escape coping and stressful life experiences. People who have a gambling addiction can also find it difficult to stop gambling and often end up taking out loans or borrowing from family and friends in a desperate attempt to try and pay off their debts.<\/p>\n
While some people can control their gambling, others find it very difficult to stop and even start to feel depressed if they are unable to do so. In extreme cases, it can lead to suicidal feelings and actions.<\/p>\n
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, there is help and support available for you and them. Talk to your GP or visit NHS Support.<\/p>\n
If you are thinking about suicide, please seek professional help immediately. In most situations, treatment can reduce or eliminate these thoughts and feelings and keep you safe. If you are able, try to spend time with family and friends who don\u2019t gamble and practice healthy ways of relieving unpleasant emotions, such as exercise, hobbies or talking through them. This could be a key step towards overcoming your gambling problems. You can also join a peer-support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a similar format to Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also get help from a specialist gambling service or rehab. These services offer help, advice and support for people with a gambling problem, and can provide inpatient or residential treatment if necessary. They can also help you retrain your brain and learn how to cope with stress and anxiety in healthier ways.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"