The Dangers of Gambling
Gambling involves risking something of value on an event that is based on chance or randomness. The resulting prize may be money, property or services. Games of chance include dice, slot machines and video poker; card games such as blackjack or baccarat; sports betting including horse or greyhound racing or football accumulators; and other events such as elections or lottery draws. Some gambling activities also involve skills that can improve the odds of winning, for example card games involving counting or the use of betting strategies, or knowledge of horses and jockeys in horse races.
Throughout history, gambling has been a popular form of entertainment, and for some people can be an enjoyable way to relax. However, for many individuals who develop problem gambling, it can cause them serious harm. This can impact their physical and mental health, their relationships with family and friends, their performance at work or study and even lead to debt and homelessness. Problem gambling is also thought to be a contributing factor in some suicides.
In the past, the risk-taking involved in gambling was viewed as immoral and was often illegal. During the late 20th century, attitudes began to change and laws on gambling were relaxed in many jurisdictions. Today, gambling is a major international commercial activity and is regulated in some countries. Governments around the world set distinct laws and regulations regarding gambling, which aim to protect consumers and maintain fairness.
Problem gambling is a complex and widespread issue. It can affect anyone – young or old, male or female, from all backgrounds and social classes. It is estimated that more than half of the UK population takes part in some form of gambling activity, but for some it can have a devastating effect on their lives. It can damage their physical and mental health, harm their relationships with family and friends, have a negative impact on their performance at work or school, cost them thousands in unrecoverable gambling debts and even lead to suicide.
For some, it can become difficult to recognise the signs of a gambling problem and seek help when it’s needed. This is because people can hide their gambling habits or lie about them, making it harder to identify a problem. Some individuals may start to gamble more frequently or with bigger amounts of money, or become preoccupied with their gambling. They can also experience withdrawal symptoms or become restless when attempting to cut down their gambling or stop altogether.
The nomenclature for pathological gambling has evolved over time to reflect different views of the disorder, with changes reflecting a desire to be more scientific in determining appropriate criteria that account for its similarities to other addictions, particularly substance abuse. Currently, the DSM defines pathological gambling as a disorder characterized by loss of control over gambling, a preoccupation with gambling and obtaining money to gamble, irrational thinking about gambling and continuing to gamble despite adverse consequences. These criteria are largely theoretical and have not been validated through clinical research.