Recognising and Dealing With Gambling Problems
Gambling is an activity in which participants risk money or possessions for the chance to win something of value. It can be done in many ways, including betting on sports, games of chance such as lottery or scratch-off tickets, and video gambling. Although many people enjoy gambling, some find it problematic. Problem gambling can lead to serious personal and financial consequences, including addiction, debt, and family difficulties. In addition, it can lead to poor health and a lower quality of life. It is important to recognise when you have a problem and seek help.
It is important to know the risks of gambling before you begin. It is also helpful to have a plan for managing your gambling. This might include setting limits for yourself or removing yourself from gambling situations. It is also important to learn how to deal with unpleasant feelings without turning to gambling. You might try exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques.
Getting support
If you think your gambling is out of control, it’s important to get help. There are many organisations that offer support and assistance for people with gambling problems. These services range from counselling to self-help programs. One option is to join a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. Other options include attending meetings with a professional therapist, or finding a sponsor, a former gambler who has successfully overcome gambling addiction.
Research shows that most people who have a problem with gambling do not seek help, even when they experience significant harm. This is partly because many people do not realise that their gambling is a problem and partly because they fear stigma or rejection. There are several reasons why you should seek help, including:
The impact of gambling
Gambling has a negative impact on the individual, their significant others, and society as a whole. It increases the cost of public services, such as social care and criminal justice. It can also increase the risk of suicide and other mental health problems. It can also lead to interpersonal harm, such as petty theft and illicit lending among family members. It has also been associated with a higher prevalence of domestic violence and homicide.
The best way to protect yourself against the harms of gambling is to avoid it altogether. However, this may be difficult for those who are already addicted. To minimise the chances of gambling-related harm, you should never gamble on credit or with borrowed funds, and make sure to balance your gambling with other activities, such as work, socialising, and caring for family members. It is also important to set a time limit for your gambling and stick to it, regardless of whether you are winning or losing. Lastly, never attempt to recover lost money by chasing losses; the more you try to win back your losses, the more you will lose in the long run.