Gambling is any form of risk-taking where a person stakes something of value in the hope of winning money or another prize. It can involve chance-based games, such as the lottery or scratchcards, which are essentially fixed odds and give everyone an equal opportunity to win, or skill-based games, such as sports gambling or blackjack, where people can use tactics to increase their chances of winning. The term is also used to describe the risk-taking behaviour of a company, for example putting capital at risk in order to grow their business.
Gambling occurs in many different places and on many different platforms. It can be done in casinos and racetracks, on the internet or in social settings, like friends’ houses. In the UK, there are more than 300 licensed bookmakers and casinos, but people gamble in other places too, including gas stations, church halls and sporting events. Gambling is a big part of our culture and it can be very addictive.
The most common type of gambling is betting on sporting events or horse races. This can be a great way to watch your favourite team or horse win, and it’s also possible to place bets online, on your mobile phone or tablet. However, it’s important to remember that gambling is not a sure-fire way to make money and can lead to addiction and financial problems if not treated properly.
There are different kinds of gambling harms, and some are more serious than others. The most common kind of harm is loss of surplus; this is where a person prioritises the purchase of gambling products over other items on their discretionary income, and can include buying things that would otherwise have been bought for themselves or family members.
Some people who gamble may not realise that their gambling is causing them harm, and may deny or minimise it. This can be difficult for loved ones to cope with, especially if they are being dishonest about their gambling or hiding evidence from family members.
Getting help for gambling problems is possible, and there are a number of effective treatments available. Some people may benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy, which is an approach to problem-solving that teaches people how to recognise and respond to triggers and unhelpful thoughts. It can also help people to understand how their brains react to gambling and learn coping strategies to reduce the impact on their lives.
Other treatments can include group therapies, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a similar model to Alcoholics Anonymous. Some people find it helpful to seek support from their peers and other ex-gamblers, who can provide guidance and reassurance about the recovery process. In addition to these formal treatments, it’s essential to try and strengthen a person’s support network and find other ways to spend their time that don’t involve gambling. This could be by joining a club or hobby, or making new friends outside of their existing circle. Alternatively, they may need to consider seeking treatment for any underlying mood disorders that are contributing to their compulsive gambling.
