Gambling has been linked to a number of different problems and challenges. These impacts can be seen on a personal, interpersonal and community/societal level. Interpersonal and societal levels involve those who are not gamblers themselves. Historically, studies have focused on the financial and economic aspects of gambling, ignoring social impacts which are harder to quantify. This approach presents a biased view of the impact and can lead to false conclusions. In addition, there is a lack of agreed nomenclature to describe these social impacts which may hamper discussion and debate about them. Research scientists, psychiatrists and other treatment care clinicians and public policy makers all frame questions about gambling differently based on their disciplinary training, experience and world views.
For some people, the thrill of winning a prize or having a good time with friends and family is enough to make them want to play. Others use gambling as a way to escape from a difficult situation or cope with boredom, stress, anxiety, depression, grief or loss. Gambling can also be used as a way to meet basic needs such as feeling important and special. Casinos are designed to foster this sense of status and belonging.
In some cases, the excitement of the game can become addictive and cause a person to lose control. Often, this leads to debt, bankruptcy or homelessness. Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, religion or education and income levels. It can occur in small towns or big cities. Problems related to gambling can also stem from cultural beliefs about the nature of gambling and what constitutes a problem.
Research has shown that the brains of some individuals are predisposed to developing gambling disorders. This happens because of changes in the reward system, which can be triggered by the act of gambling. These changes are similar to those triggered by certain drugs such as alcohol and illegal drugs. In addition, some people are genetically predisposed to thrill-seeking behavior and impulsiveness.
Vulnerability to developing a gambling disorder increases with the amount of money that is lost and the length of time that a person has been gambling. This is particularly true for people with lower incomes, who have more to lose and are at greater risk of addiction than those with higher incomes. Young people, especially boys and men, are also more likely to develop a gambling disorder.
While it is possible to stop gambling, many people have difficulty doing so. If you think you or someone you know has a gambling problem, it is important to seek help from a professional therapist. A therapist can help you understand your own motivations for gambling and teach you tools to manage your behaviors in more healthy ways. In addition, a therapist can recommend other helpful resources. For example, a therapist can refer you to credit counseling or other financial services. This can help you get back on track with your finances and avoid a relapse.