Gambling is the wagering of something of value (the bettor’s money) on a random event, with the intent to win something else of value. The event can be anything from a football match to a scratchcard. In most forms of gambling, instances of strategy are discounted. Gambling is also a form of entertainment and a common source of recreation in many cultures.
It’s important to remember that your loved one probably has a good reason for continuing to gamble. Maybe they’re hoping for an early win, or they find it helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Even though these coping reasons don’t excuse the addictive behaviour, they can help you understand why it might not be immediately possible to stop.
Some people may have a genetic predisposition towards thrill-seeking behaviour and impulsivity, which can increase their risk of developing a gambling problem. In addition, certain types of gambling may trigger a reward response in the brain, which can lead to compulsive behaviour.
If you’re concerned about someone in your life, try to find ways to strengthen their support network and encourage them to seek professional help. Consider speaking to a therapist, or joining a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous. You can also offer to take control of their finances if they’re struggling, but make sure you know what your responsibilities are before doing so. There are lots of effective treatments for gambling addiction, including inpatient and residential programmes.
