Gambling is a worldwide activity and, while some people enjoy gambling, for others it can cause harm. This harm can range from physical health problems such as headaches and nausea to social costs including family breakdown, reduced productivity at work or study, financial stress and mental illness. Harms can also impact on society at large in terms of social cohesion, crime and economic costs.
Research and policy approaches to gambling have largely been framed through psychological and economic models of individual behaviour and addiction. However, an increasing number of socio-cultural approaches to gambling research are being embraced. This is a result of the recognition that gambling is a socially and culturally embedded activity, which can have both positive and negative effects. The growing acceptance of these alternative approaches is enabling researchers to explore a range of perspectives on gambling and the development of more effective interventions aimed at reducing gambling-related harms.
Pathological gambling has been linked to a range of harms that can impact on individuals and society at large, including social distress, relationship problems, mental illness, drug use and suicide. It can also contribute to poverty by diverting household spending away from essential goods and services. People who gamble at harmful levels can also put those close to them at risk, with research suggesting that for every person who experiences a problem with gambling, six others are affected.
Various explanations of pathological gambling have been proposed, including a lack of recreational interest, impaired mathematical skills, poor judgement, cognitive distortions and mental illness. But a common theme is the ‘high’ of anticipating a win, which can make the subsequent lows even more debilitating. Attempts to reduce gambling harm often focus on changing these motivations, but this can be difficult.
Some people find it hard to stop gambling, or are unable to control their expenditure, and this can lead to a relapse. This is because they continue to seek the ‘high’ of gambling, which may be in response to life events or triggers. In these circumstances, it’s a good idea to talk about your gambling problems with someone you trust. This could be a friend, a member of your family or a professional counsellor.
It’s important to understand that the ‘high’ feeling of gambling is caused by the release of dopamine in the brain. This is why it’s so addictive, and why many people find it hard to quit. This is why it’s important to set goals, and to keep your budget in check.
To help you avoid temptation, avoid places where you’re likely to gamble, such as casinos and TABs. Also, don’t drink too much alcohol, as this will reduce your ability to think clearly. Always tip your casino dealer regularly, either by handing them a chip and saying “This is for me”, or by placing a bet for them. Similarly, you should tip your cocktail waitresses. I give them a $1-$5 chip every time they come around. You might not win much money this way, but you will have a more pleasant experience and you’ll be less likely to get into trouble with the security guards.
