Gambling involves risking something of value (money, time, or that last piece of cake) in exchange for the chance to win something of greater value. It can be done in a variety of ways, including betting on sports events, casino games, card games, online gambling, and the lottery. While some people use gambling as a way to escape feelings of depression or anxiety, research shows that it can actually make these feelings worse.
The main problem with gambling is that it can be addictive and cause serious problems with relationships, health, and work. It can also be dangerous for those who have an underactive reward system in their brains, which is more common in certain mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
It’s important to recognise your triggers and learn how to avoid them. For example, if you tend to gamble when socialising with friends, try to find other activities that will help you to relax – such as going to the cinema or a concert.
If you think you have a gambling problem, it’s essential to get help. If you’re not sure where to start, contact the Responsible Gambling Council or an addictions counselling service. You can also talk to a family member or friend who you trust, or speak to your GP. They’ll be able to offer support and advice, or refer you to a specialist.
When gambling, it’s best to start with a fixed amount of money that you’re willing to lose. This will help you to stay in control and stop chasing your losses. It’s also important to set a limit on how long you want to spend gambling and to stick to it. If you’re worried about the gambling habits of someone close to you, try to keep them away from casinos or other places where they might gamble.
Don’t be tempted to make bigger bets just because you’re losing. This is called the ‘gambler’s fallacy’, and it’s a trap that can easily catch you out. It’s based on the false assumption that you’ll be more likely to win back your lost money if you increase your wager size. In reality, your chances of winning are proportionally the same whether you bet $1 or $100.
It’s also important to reduce your access to money, either by getting rid of credit cards or only using one that can’t be used for gambling purposes, closing online betting accounts, putting a spouse or parent in charge of your finances, or keeping only a small amount of cash on you at all times. You can also set limits on the hours you spend at casinos or other gambling venues. You’ll be less tempted to play if you know you have to leave at a certain time. Also, don’t borrow money to gamble – you never know when you might be asked to pay it back. This can lead to a spiral of debt that’s difficult to break out of.