Occasional gambling can be fun and a way to socialize with friends, but if someone starts spending more time than they intend to gamble or if it seems like they’re betting more money than they can afford to lose, it may be a sign of a problem. Gambling can also lead to a number of negative consequences, including financial stress and family problems.
If you or a loved one is having trouble coping with gambling, here’s what you can do:
Set boundaries in managing money; take control of family finances; review bank and credit card statements; talk to a professional to discuss local referral resources; and consider family therapy or marriage, career, and credit counseling to help you find a healthier relationship with money. Remember, gambling is a choice, and you’re not alone—so many families have had to deal with problem gambling.
It’s important to note that just about any type of betting can be considered a form of gambling, whether it’s playing poker or betting on a sports game. In fact, even the stock market could be considered gambling in a sense, as you are betting that you will either increase or decrease your wealth within a certain amount of time. However, some forms of gambling are more dangerous than others.
While there are a variety of reasons why someone might turn to gambling, some of the most common include:
In addition to these factors, people can also be genetically predisposed to thrill-seeking behaviors and impulsivity. This can make it difficult for them to recognize when they are gambling too much or have a problem. Research has found that there are differences in the brain’s reward system and how well a person can regulate their emotions and control their impulses, making them more prone to risk-taking.
Those with mental illness or substance use disorders can be at higher risk for problem gambling. This is because they can often hide their gambling habits from their family and friends and use it as a way to escape their symptoms or denial. If you’re worried about a friend or family member, it’s best to talk to them about their gambling habits and get non-judgemental support from the GamCare helpline.