Whether playing video games, putting money on the next football game or betting on a horse race, gambling involves placing something of value on a random event with the hope of winning. A small number of people develop a gambling disorder, and it can be difficult to know who might be vulnerable. Generally, people with low incomes are more at risk than those with higher incomes, and younger people are also more likely to develop a problem because their brains have not yet matured.
People gamble to win money, socialize or relieve boredom and stress. The most common forms of gambling are card games (poker, blackjack, bridge), lotteries and sports betting. A bettor can use knowledge of strategies to improve his or her chances of winning, but it is still a game of chance. The odds of winning are the product of a multitude of factors that cannot be controlled, including past events, current conditions and other players’ skill.
Some people find it hard to resist the temptation to gamble and end up spending more money than they can afford. This can lead to debt and even bankruptcy. Occasional gambling is not necessarily harmful but it is important to know how to stop before things get out of hand. A good way to prevent a gambling addiction is to only play with money you can afford to lose. Keeping credit cards away from the casino, leaving your phone at home and closing online betting accounts are other ways to limit your exposure. You should also be sure to tip your dealers regularly, and never try to tip cash. Casinos are giving you free cocktails for a reason, so don’t down too many of them and don’t be reckless with your betting.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, the first step is to talk about it. A friend or family member who has struggled with an addiction may be able to help you understand the problem and provide encouragement and support. A therapist or counselor can help you find healthy coping mechanisms and learn how to deal with negative emotions in a healthier way.
Gambling is often seen as a harmless form of entertainment, but it can become addictive. It can cause severe financial problems and is often accompanied by substance abuse, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. In addition, it can be a major source of conflict within families. If someone in your life is struggling with a gambling addiction, you can help by supporting them financially, setting boundaries and encouraging them to seek help.
There is a growing role for physicians in the evaluation of patients for addictive disorders.1,2 This article aims to review the literature on gambling behavior and the relationship between it and health, screening for and treatment of pathological gambling. The MEDLINE database was searched using the MeSH term “gambling” to identify articles relevant to this topic.