Gambling involves placing something of value on a random event, such as a football match or scratchcard, with the intention of winning a prize. The terms “gambling” and “betting” are often used interchangeably, but gambling is not the same as betting. Rather, the latter refers to wagering on future events and is often associated with sports and horse racing. In contrast, the former is a high-stakes game of chance in which luck plays an important role.
Most people gamble for fun and excitement, but some become so serious about it that they have negative personal, social, and family effects. This is known as gambling addiction. Those who struggle with gambling addiction may also develop other underlying problems, such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders or bipolar disorder. In extreme cases, those who are deeply involved in gambling may even commit suicide.
Problem gambling is a complex phenomenon, and it can be difficult to recognise when your loved one is struggling. Many people who suffer from gambling addiction do not seek help out of shame or fear of being judged, and they may even hide their gambling behaviour or lie about how much they spend.
There are a number of things that you can do to help your loved one overcome their addiction. For example, you can encourage them to get help from a therapist. You can also try BetterHelp, an online service that matches you with licensed and accredited therapists for help with depression, anxiety, relationships, addiction, and more.
If you suspect that your loved one is struggling with gambling addiction, try to understand their motives for gambling. For some, gambling is a way to relieve boredom and loneliness, while for others it is a way to escape unpleasant thoughts or life circumstances. Try to find healthier ways for them to relieve these emotions, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or taking up a new hobby.
It’s also important to set limits for yourself when gambling. Only gamble with disposable income and never with money that you need to pay bills or rent. Also, make sure to always tip casino staff – cocktail waitresses especially. They can be very persuasive and you don’t want to give them any reason to convince you to keep gambling!
It’s not uncommon for people to gamble until they’re broke. This is known as chasing losses and can cause significant financial, emotional and psychological damage. Some people may be able to break this vicious cycle, but for many it’s too late. For this reason, it’s best to seek professional help as soon as possible. A therapist can teach you techniques to manage your gambling and help you break the habit once and for all. They can also advise you on other sources of support, such as peer groups, like Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous. They can also help you develop strategies to cope with relapses.