Gambling involves risking money or material valuables on an uncertain outcome, such as a roll of the dice, the spin of a roulette wheel, or the result of a horse race. It is a popular leisure activity worldwide and has major social and economic impacts, including the impact on the gambler themselves and their significant others. These impacts are observed at the personal, interpersonal and community/society levels (Fig 1).
People seek out gambling as a source of excitement and the thrill of winning, believing that they can change their luck and overcome bad odds. However, they may not realize that gambling is a high-risk activity with low rewards and that their losses will outweigh any gains they make. In addition, the act of gambling can cause psychological problems and even physical symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Although many people believe that they can control their gambling behavior, studies show that a large percentage of gamblers develop gambling disorders. These include compulsive gambling, pathological gambling and excessive gambling. Comorbidity with substance use disorders is also common, and people who gamble often misuse alcohol or drugs. In addition, some people have genetic predispositions to reward-seeking behaviors and impulsivity.
Vulnerability to gambling disorder increases with age and is higher among those from lower socioeconomic statuses. In addition, proximity to gambling venues is associated with higher gambler intensity and poorer mental health. People with low incomes are more likely to spend more time gambling and to gamble in ways that increase their exposure to risks, such as by chasing losses. Vulnerability to gambling problems is also influenced by personal and family factors, such as a history of family substance abuse or a lack of familial support.
Despite these warnings, many individuals continue to engage in gambling, and some become addicted. It is important that doctors recognize and treat problem gambling as a disorder so that they can help patients address related problems and improve their quality of life. There is a growing role for primary care providers to evaluate patients for gambling behavior and provide screening and treatment.
The biggest step in overcoming gambling addiction is realizing that there is a problem. While this can be difficult for some people, there are resources available to help. In addition to seeking professional treatment, people with a gambling problem can also strengthen their support network by reaching out to friends and family members and by joining a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step recovery program of Alcoholics Anonymous. They can also try a new hobby or interest, enroll in education classes, volunteer with a charity, or participate in recreational activities such as sports or art. Those who find that they are struggling to manage their finances and credit should talk to a financial counselor, and if necessary, work with a debt counselor.