Gambling is an activity where people place bets on a game with the hope of winning a prize. It can be a fun way to socialise with friends or escape from worries and stresses. But, for some, gambling becomes an addiction that can lead to financial problems, family breakdown and even mental health issues such as depression or suicide.
Understanding of the adverse consequences of gambling has undergone profound change in recent years. For most of history, gamblers with adverse outcomes were viewed as having recreational interest and poor judgment, but the development of the concept of pathological gambling led to its inclusion in the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (called DSM). The changing clinical understanding has been paralleled by a significant expansion in the opportunities for gambling, as well as a dramatic rise in the profitability of casino gaming and other forms of gambling.
The growing availability and accessibility of gambling opportunities, coupled with increasingly relaxed policies and regulations, poses unique challenges to government, industry and consumers. Unregulated gambling and the spread of information about online gambling make it difficult for governments to monitor activity, protect their populations from harmful practices and capture lawful taxation revenue. Gambling also presents a threat to progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, as it undermines public health, social cohesion and social justice.
There are a number of steps that can be taken to help reduce harms from gambling. These include reducing the opportunity to gamble by removing advertising and promotions, ensuring that gambling establishments are properly regulated and restricting access (e.g. opening hours, density) and introducing civic education in schools on the dangers of gambling. Voluntary contributions from the gambling industry or a statutory levy, with policy development and responsibility domiciled in the Ministry of Health, would be helpful in funding these activities.
In addition, a number of community resources are available to help people who are affected by problem gambling. These include treatment services, support groups and self-help tips. If you are concerned about your gambling behaviour, there are many warning signs to look out for, including if you are spending more than you can afford, borrowing money or feeling stressed and anxious. It is also important to build and maintain a strong support network, and try to find activities that take you away from gambling such as taking up a new hobby, joining a book club or sports team, volunteering for a cause or trying a 12-step recovery program like Gamblers Anonymous.
Finally, a key tip is to start with a fixed amount of money you are prepared to lose and not increase the bet after each win. This will prevent you from getting carried away with winnings and losing more than you can afford to lose. It is also a good idea to always tip dealers, either with cash or chips, and to avoid leaving your chips on the table. This will ensure that your dealer gets a decent tip and will be more likely to remember you next time.