How Gambling Affects People With Gambling Disorders
Gambling is wagering something of value, such as money or property, on an event whose outcome depends on chance and has no known skill elements. It is a common pastime and a major source of income in many countries. Some people develop problems with gambling. This can affect their health, relationships and work or study performance. It can also lead to debt and even homelessness. The good news is that help and treatment are available.
Gambling occurs in a variety of forms, from traditional casinos and lotteries to online poker and sports betting. It can be conducted with money, objects of value, or virtual tokens (such as virtual coins in video games). The activity may include the use of skills that reduce the chances of losing or increase the odds of winning. For example, knowledge of card-playing strategies can improve the likelihood of winning in some games, and knowledge of horses and jockeys may enhance predictions of probable outcomes in horse races.
People with a gambling problem often try to hide their gambling or lie about it. They may have trouble stopping or reducing how much they gamble and they may find it difficult to control their spending. They may feel compelled to be secretive about their gambling because they think that others won’t understand or that they will surprise them with a big win.
It’s hard to know when a gambling habit is becoming a problem. Some people who have a problem may experience a range of emotions including stress, regret and guilt, especially when they lose. Problem gambling can affect people of all ages. Young people, particularly boys and men, are more susceptible to developing a gambling disorder. This is because their brains do not mature fully until the age of 25.
Pathological gambling has been compared to substance dependence and is sometimes referred to as a ‘hidden addiction’ because it can be hidden from friends and family. It can have devastating effects on families and is associated with higher suicide rates than other psychiatric disorders.
Those with a gambling problem are at high risk of suicide. In addition, they are at increased risk of other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. In some cases, these problems are so severe that they can be life-threatening.
Some people with a gambling disorder can be successfully treated. However, a large number of people with gambling problems do not receive help. Those who do receive help can make substantial improvements to their lives. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has developed a guide to help identify and treat problem gambling. This includes advice on setting boundaries in managing money; taking control of family finances; reviewing bank and credit card statements; and looking for local referral resources such as certified gambling counselors or intensive treatment programs. You can download the guide below. You can also find more information about gambling on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.