Whether you’re betting on horse races, buying lottery tickets or laying down bets on your favourite online casino game, gambling involves risking something of value in the hope of winning a prize. Some people gamble for a thrill or socialising and others do it as a way to escape from problems or stress. But for some, the addiction to gambling can get out of control and it’s important to recognise when it’s affecting your mental health.
Gambling is a legal activity that can be addictive. In fact, pathological gambling is a recognised mental illness and should be assessed and treated like any other.
The first step is to recognise that you have a problem, and this can be difficult. If you’re concerned, speak to your GP or a mental health professional. They’ll ask questions and help you understand the impact your gambling is having on your life. Alternatively, you can complete our gambling harms assessment.
You can also get support from gambling charities and self-help websites. They can give you advice and tips to help you stop gambling or change the way you play. They may even be able to refer you to a specialist gambling service.
Some people are more likely to develop a gambling problem than others. Age, family history and sex can play a role. It’s particularly common for children and teenagers to start gambling, as can people who have a family member with a gambling disorder. People who have been through traumatic or stressful experiences can also be more susceptible to developing a gambling addiction.
Compulsive gambling affects people from all walks of life and can occur in anyone who has a desire to gamble. It can be particularly problematic for people who have poor financial management skills, are easily distracted or have a family history of mental health issues. People who are at work or in school are more likely to be tempted by casinos and betting sites.
Many people think that only the glitzy casinos and betting shops are where gambling happens, but it’s actually all around us. You can gamble in petrol stations, restaurants and churches. In addition, online gambling is a growing market. If you’re not careful, it can be easy to lose track of time spent gambling, which means you might miss out on other things in your life that could make you happier. This includes family, friends, hobbies or even work. The best thing to do is stick to a budget and never borrow money to fund your gambling. Also, don’t gamble when you’re feeling sad, angry or lonely. Finally, remember that gambling is a game of chance and don’t try to predict the outcome or use superstitious rituals. If you do this, you’re at risk of losing more than you can afford to lose. And don’t play games you don’t understand – this is a recipe for disaster. Instead, choose games you know the rules of, and always bet with cash.