If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, there are effective treatments available that can help them get back on track. In addition, you can also find out more about the condition, including how it affects your brain, and what to look out for.
Gambling is when you risk something of value (money, possessions or even your health) on a random event such as a football match or scratchcard and hope to win money. It is based on chance and involves some level of skill, but the majority of it is down to luck.
It is often a trigger for other problems, including substance abuse and mood disorders. Often people start gambling to escape from these other issues, but this only makes things worse and can lead to homelessness, bankruptcy and even suicide.
Vulnerability to gambling disorders is higher among people with low incomes who have more to lose than to gain from a big win and young people, especially men, who outnumber women up to 2:1 in cases of problem gambling. Some people are at a greater risk of developing an addictive gambling disorder because they have an underlying mental illness such as anxiety or depression.
You should only gamble with money that you can afford to lose. Whenever you go to a casino, start with a fixed amount and stick to it. It is also helpful to choose your games carefully, avoid high-risk situations like drinking alcohol, and avoid relapse triggers. For example, never play with friends who also gamble or shop at shops that sell betting paraphernalia.