Gambling is a popular pastime that involves risking money in the hope of winning. Some games are based solely on chance, while others involve skill. Gambling can be a fun way to socialise with friends and family, and it can help develop skills like pattern recognition, critical thinking, maths and teamwork. However, gambling can also cause problems for some people. It is important to understand that problem gambling can affect people from all backgrounds and socioeconomic groups. The people most at risk of developing a gambling disorder are those who have the lowest incomes, young people and men.
People start gambling for a number of reasons. It might be for the excitement, dreaming of a big win or to escape from everyday problems and stress. Some people are more likely to develop a gambling disorder, such as those who have an early big win and then continue to gamble because they want to replicate that experience. Other factors that increase the likelihood of a person having a gambling problem include boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a poor understanding of random events, use of escape coping and depression.
If you know someone who has a gambling problem, try to talk with them about it and offer support. You could suggest that they seek treatment for their gambling. There are many effective treatments for gambling disorders. This includes cognitive behavioural therapy. Other ways to reduce the risk of a gambling problem are to avoid visiting places where they gamble, not using credit cards or loans to fund gambling and finding other recreational activities to do.