Gambling involves placing a wager on a future contingent event that is not under the control or influence of the gambler. It can involve betting on a game, such as football, with the intention of winning a prize that may vary in value from a small amount of money to a life-changing jackpot. It also includes games such as poker and blackjack, which can be played in brick-and-mortar casinos and online.
In addition to the monetary costs, gambling can carry significant social and psychological costs. These costs are largely invisible to the public at large, but they are nevertheless real. They include the effects on a gambler’s family and community. They are also measurable in terms of health-related quality of life (HRQL) weights, which have been used to measure the per-person burden of gambling on people’s well-being [32].
People gamble for many different reasons. Some are motivated by the desire to experience pleasure and reward, like spending time with loved ones or eating a delicious meal. Others may be influenced by the prospect of becoming rich. The lure of quick money or the dream of becoming a lottery winner can be particularly tempting for those with low incomes. The availability of easy access to gambling, such as via sports wagering apps, can increase the likelihood of problem gambling.
If you or a loved one has problems with gambling, talk to a mental health professional. You can find support through a variety of therapy options, including psychodynamic therapy, which examines how unconscious processes affect your behavior. You can also participate in group therapy, which helps you communicate with other people who are struggling with the same issue.
