Gambling is a common leisure activity in most countries, but it has many negative impacts on people, their significant others, and society. These impacts occur at the financial, labor, and health and well-being levels. They can also affect the gambling industry and other industries, including tourism, infrastructure cost or value changes, and job gains and losses. Research on gambling impacts has tended to take a costs-of-illness approach, as is often done in alcohol and drug research, but this misses the benefits side of the equation. A public health approach to gambling impacts is needed, where the negative and positive impacts are considered simultaneously.
One of the biggest negative impacts of gambling is that it can devastate families and friends. It can also have a profound impact on mental health, especially in the case of problem gamblers who may be able to lose control and even turn to suicide. The good news is that there are strategies and treatment options to help overcome gambling addiction, such as self-exclusion, cognitive therapy, peer support groups, and inpatient or residential programs.
Gambling can also cause problems for the gambling venues themselves, especially smaller ones that cannot afford to compete with larger and more upscale establishments. The loss of custom can have a detrimental effect on the local economy. In addition, gamblers are often exposed to addictive gambling products that increase their chances of losing more money. The risk of gambling addiction can also be exacerbated by other risky behaviours, such as a lack of proper financial management, lying, hiding evidence of gambling activities, or spending more than you can afford to lose.
Another negative impact of gambling is that it can lead to debt and bankruptcy, which can have lasting consequences on a person’s quality of life, including the ability to make healthy choices and maintain a stable employment situation. In addition, problem gamblers can often become dependent on drugs or alcohol to mask their feelings of anxiety and depression.
Some of the positive impacts of gambling are that it can teach you to be more observant and mentally task your brain, which is beneficial for your mental health. Additionally, it can give you a sense of accomplishment when you win.
If you’re struggling with gambling, it’s important to talk about your problems with a trusted friend or family member. They can offer unbiased support and guidance to help you overcome your issues. They can also encourage you to find other hobbies and ways to socialise that don’t involve betting on sporting events or buying lottery tickets. They can also help you set money and time limits for how much you can spend on gambling and stop you from chasing your losses, which can only result in bigger and bigger losses. In some cases, your friends and family may even be able to provide professional treatment for you, such as inpatient or residential programs. These can be very effective and are a great option for people with severe gambling addictions.
