Gambling involves betting something of value – money, time or that last piece of cake – on an event with the potential to produce a positive outcome. This could be placing a bet on a football match or buying a scratchcard. The event is based on chance, which is defined by the house edge (a mathematical advantage that is either predetermined or fluctuating depending on the game) and a gambler’s ability to understand and accept the odds.
Whether it’s the thrill of winning or the disappointment of losing, gambling can be an exciting and rewarding activity if it is done responsibly. However, if it becomes a habit that affects an individual’s relationships, work or mental health, it can become problematic. A person may even be in danger of hurting themselves or others if they gamble to deal with depression, loneliness or anger. Problematic gambling is often difficult to recognise, as it does not show physical symptoms, unlike alcohol or drug addiction. But there are some common warning signs, which include a lack of focus on other activities, reckless bets and gambling being used as an escape from emotional distress. To avoid a problem, it is best to reduce access to money – for example, getting rid of credit cards and only carrying small amounts of cash, having a spouse or parent in charge of household finances or using a casino’s self-exclusion tool. It is also helpful to give priority to work, study and other appointments and never gamble when you are feeling angry, sad or lonely, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
