Gambling is any activity where you stake something of value on an uncertain outcome, such as a roll of the dice or the results of a horse race. It can be a form of recreation or a way to make money. However, it can be dangerous if you are not in control of your spending and can easily lose more than you have invested. There are also links between gambling and mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. It is important to get help if you are struggling with a mental illness.
A common problem with gambling is that it is used as a distraction from difficult thoughts or life situations. This can make it hard to stop gambling, even when you are losing money. You may also become depressed and anxious about your gambling and not want to talk about it with family and friends. In extreme cases, this can lead to feelings of suicidal ideation and self-harm. If you are feeling suicidal or have thoughts about harming yourself, please contact 999 for emergency services or the Samaritans.
People can be addicted to any type of gambling, including online poker, betting on sports, and scratch tickets. Research suggests that some people may have a biological predisposition to thrill-seeking behaviour and impulsivity, which can lead to risky gambling. However, there are also factors that can influence the development of a gambling problem, such as social norms, cultural values, and financial difficulties.
There are many ways to get support if you have a gambling problem. You can speak to a GP or a therapist, attend a gambling recovery program, or join a support group. You can also try mindfulness techniques, which may help you to change your thinking patterns and focus on the present moment.
The most important thing is to reduce your access to money and places where you can gamble. This could include getting rid of credit cards (or only keeping ones that can’t be used for gambling), closing online betting accounts, putting a spouse or partner in charge of your finances, and staying away from casinos or TABs. You should also consider debt advice, which is available free from StepChange.
Another option is cognitive behavioural therapy, which can be used to treat all types of addictions, including gambling. This type of treatment can help you examine your beliefs about gambling and learn to recognise the triggers that lead to a relapse. It can also teach you coping strategies, such as breathing exercises and visualising positive outcomes. You can find a therapist who is trained in CBT by using the search tool on this website.
