Recognising the Signs of a Gambling Addiction
Gambling involves risking something of value (such as money, time or a social reputation) for the chance of winning something else of value (such as an item, a prize or more money). While some people gamble without problem, others develop an addiction to gambling which can cause them harm. Gambling addiction can lead to problems with family and friends, work or school, and financial disaster. It can also increase stress, depression and anxiety. It’s important to recognise the signs of a gambling addiction so that you can seek help and support.
Many people have a habit of gambling, and it’s not uncommon for it to be a regular feature in their lifestyle. It can be hard to know if gambling is becoming a problem, and some people may deny that they have a problem or try to hide their behaviour from family and friends. You can get help for a gambling problem from a number of different organisations. The type of service you choose will depend on your circumstances, but most services offer counselling, advice and support to help you overcome your problem.
Some people who are addicted to gambling can’t control their spending and have a great deal of debt. In some cases, they can even become homeless as a result of their gambling addiction. It’s important to seek help as soon as you can if you have a gambling problem, and you can find out more about how to get support here.
Gambling can be found in many places, from casinos and racetracks to lottery tickets and online games. People gamble for a variety of reasons, including the thrill of winning money, the socialising with friends and the escape from everyday worries or stress. Many people with mental health problems are at risk of harmful gambling. You can find out more about how to get help and advice for a gambling problem here.
When you gamble, your brain produces a chemical called dopamine when you win. This helps you learn from your experiences and can help you make good decisions in the future. However, when you have a gambling addiction, the reward pathways in your brain are altered and you lose control over your gambling behaviour. This can lead to dangerous behaviours such as borrowing money or stealing to fund your gambling habit.
A gambling addiction can lead to debt, loss of employment and relationships, depression and anxiety, and it can also affect your physical health. There are many ways to help you break the gambling habit, including therapy, peer support groups and self-help techniques. You can also ask for help and support from a friend or relative, and try to find other things to do with your time. If you’re worried about your debts, StepChange can offer free and confidential debt advice.
