What Is Gambling?

Gambling is the betting or staking of something of value, usually money, on an event with an element of chance and the potential to win a prize. This can be done in many ways – by playing games of chance such as cards, dice or bingo, betting on events such as sports, horse races or animal games, buying instant scratchcards, playing the lottery or even playing video or online gaming with gambling elements. The word ‘gambling’ can also refer to an activity that involves skill – for example, using knowledge of card strategies or horses and jockeys to improve chances of winning.

A small percentage of people develop an addiction to gambling that has significant negative personal, family and financial consequences. Until recently, these individuals were thought of as a type of alcoholic, but our understanding has now undergone a major change and these people are now considered to have a psychological problem known as pathological gambling. This change has been reflected and stimulated by the changes in our understanding of alcoholism, and it is now believed that gambling problems can be treated just like any other psychological disorder.

It is estimated that 2.5 million U.S adults (about 1%) meet diagnostic criteria for severe gambling problems in any given year and another 5-8 million (2-3%) have mild or moderate problems that affect their daily functioning and relationships. In addition, approximately 7 million adults are classified as pathological gamblers in remission (meaning they met DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling at some point in their lives but no longer meet them now).

People from all walks of life can become problem gamblers, although it seems that men are more vulnerable than women. Vulnerability is higher in those with low incomes who have more to gain from a big win, and young people can be particularly susceptible to developing problems if they begin gambling at an early age. People who are isolated or bored can be attracted to gambling, as well as those who have poor social networks and who feel that they have nothing else to do.

People who have a gambling problem often try to manage their problems by themselves, but it is important to seek help. It is advisable to contact a therapist or specialist clinic for advice and support. Counselling may include family therapy and debt, career and credit counseling, which can help to deal with the specific issues that caused or contributed to the gambling problem. Having these specific issues dealt with can make it much harder for the person to gamble, as they will not have access to money that they could spend on the habit. In the long term, this can reduce the severity of gambling problems and prevent relapses. In addition, a therapist can offer education and training to the gambler and their family and friends, so that they are aware of the risks involved and how to avoid them. This includes educating them about the dangers of chasing losses and teaching them how to be responsible when betting.