Whether it’s buying a lotto ticket, putting a bet on the horses, using the pokies or betting on sports events, gambling involves placing something of value at risk on an event that has an element of chance. When you gamble, you hope to win a prize that could be anything from a small amount of money to a life-changing jackpot.
Gambling is a risky activity that can cause harm, both to the person who is gambling and to those close to them. These impacts can be at the personal, interpersonal or community/society level and include costs and benefits that do not have a monetary value. These impacts may be psychological (e.g., self-blame and truth denial) or behavioural (e.g., increased debt and financial bankruptcy).
Adolescents often have different reasons for engaging in gambling behaviour than adults. Some are motivated by the social setting and opportunities offered by gambling venues, whereas others are motivated by the desire to win money. Regardless of their motivation, there is a strong link between mental health problems and gambling. Adolescents with a mental health problem are more likely to experience harmful gambling than those who don’t.
In addition, adolescents who start gambling at a younger age are more prone to develop gambling problems as adults. These problems may continue into adulthood and lead to significant repercussions on family, work, and finances. Research suggests that adolescent gambling also has a negative impact on school performance and mental well-being.
For those who are struggling with a gambling addiction, there are things they can do to reduce their temptation and the harm that it causes. For example, they can speak with someone who won’t judge them, such as a family member or a counsellor. They can make a commitment not to use credit cards or take out loans, and they can avoid going to casinos or other places where people gamble. They should also try to avoid using gambling as a way of socialising or an escape from their everyday lives.
Another good thing to do is set time limits for gambling and stick to them, whether they are winning or losing. They can also budget their gambling and treat it like any other expense, rather than as a way to make money. Finally, they can replace gambling with other activities that are more fulfilling and healthy. This can be done by volunteering or by taking up a new hobby. Studies show that focusing on positive aspects of your life can help you overcome addictive behaviors and improve your wellbeing. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can break the cycle of unhealthy gambling habits and stop it causing you harm. In the long run, this will save you money and give you back control of your finances. By replacing harmful gambling habits with healthier ones, you will be able to focus on more important things in your life. This can help you feel happier and more content, which will reduce stress and depression triggers.
