Gambling and Its Dangerous Repercussions
Gambling is an activity in which money or other items of value are risked on an outcome that is uncertain. It can also involve placing bets on a game of chance, such as the roll of a dice, the spin of a wheel or the outcome of a horse race. Gambling is a popular pastime for many people, but for some, it can be harmful. Problem gambling has serious psychological, social and financial repercussions. It can damage a person’s relationship with family and friends, affect their work or study performance and cause serious debt and even homelessness. It is a mental health disorder and is included in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5).
While nobody knows exactly when gambling first started, there is evidence that it has been around for a long time. Archaeologists have found dice beside the mummified bodies of pharaohs, Greek history contains stories of soldiers shooting craps to pass the time and the Bible records that Roman centurions gambled for Christ’s robe after his crucifixion. Today, the opportunity to gamble is widespread, with casinos and lotteries concentrated in cities like Las Vegas and Atlantic City, but online gambling websites and mobile applications make it possible for people to place a bet anytime and anywhere.
The thrill of winning is addictive, but so is the misery of losing. Many gamblers become consumed by their desire to recoup their losses and can be overwhelmed by “gambling fever.” This can result in a vicious cycle of risk-taking that can quickly escalate into a loss-control nightmare. In addition, there are some individuals who may be genetically predisposed to high levels of thrill-seeking behaviour and impulsivity. In some cases, these traits may be exacerbated by drugs and alcohol, which can alter the way a person processes reward information, controls impulses and weighs risk.
Although it is easy to see why some people develop problematic gambling habits, others find it harder to recognize that they have a problem. This is often because they are part of a community that views gambling as normal, and this can impact the ways in which they perceive their own gambling activities and what constitutes an unhealthy amount of gambling.
There are various ways to help someone who is struggling with a gambling addiction, including support groups, therapy and professional counseling. It is important to note that, while those services can provide a valuable source of support, they are not a substitute for a face-to-face evaluation with a trained clinical professional. In addition, these types of services are not available in all areas and can be costly. Therefore, it is vital that anyone who suspects that they have a gambling problem seeks an assessment and treatment as soon as possible. Those who have an immediate need for help should call the hotlines provided in this guide. They will be able to connect them with local professionals who can provide treatment and assistance.
