Causes of Gambling Problems
Gambling involves placing something of value (money or other goods) at risk on the outcome of an event involving chance, with the potential to win a prize that is much larger than the amount invested. The chances of winning vary, and most people lose more money than they win when they gamble. People can gamble in many ways, including lotteries, card games, roulette, dice, sports betting and horse races. It is also possible to make a bet on virtual events and in online casinos.
People who suffer from gambling disorders can experience a wide range of harms. These can include relationship breakdown, financial difficulties, mental health issues (including suicidal thoughts), substance misuse problems and erosion of civil society by illegal activities such as money laundering and corruption. In addition, the economic costs to individuals and their families are significant. The total cost of harms from gambling is estimated to be around $1.4 trillion globally each year, with over 60% of losses arising from those who are gambling at harmful levels (Kallick et al, 1979).
Most people can enjoy some form of gambling, including the lottery, casino games and slot machines, online poker and DIY investing. However, some people may experience a problem with any of these, or other forms of gambling such as fantasy sports leagues and scratch cards. No single form of gambling is more addictive than others, and research into the cause of harmful gambling suggests that a combination of factors is involved.
The term pathological gambling is used to describe a condition where a person develops a serious problem with gambling. Although there is considerable debate about the construct validity of pathological gambling, it is widely accepted that it is distinct from other forms of addiction. People with pathological gambling can be highly functional and successful in other areas of their lives, but are unable to control their gambling.
It is also important to note that there is a strong link between gambling and suicide. If you or a loved one are having suicidal thoughts, call 999 or visit A&E immediately.
While there are a number of different causes of gambling problems, people are at greater risk of developing them if they have other mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, gambling can be a way to distract yourself from distressing events or emotions such as anger or distress.
There are a number of things that can help reduce the risk of harmful gambling, such as universal pre-commitment and self-exclusion (which allow people to set binding limits on how much money or time they spend gambling). In addition, some people find relief from their gambling by spending more time with family and friends and by taking up other recreational activities. Harmful gambling is associated with a wide range of harms, from loss of earnings and employment to debt and homelessness. These are some of the most important factors that need to be addressed in order to prevent and reduce gambling-related harms.