Gambling is an activity in which people risk money or something of value on the outcome of a game of chance. It can include games of chance (fruit machines, lotteries, casino games, scratchcards) and betting with friends or family (horse races, football matches). People gamble for a variety of reasons: Some people enjoy the euphoria they feel when they win, others like the social interaction. People who have gambling problems experience feelings of depression and anxiety.
The risk of developing a gambling problem can affect anyone. The likelihood of becoming a problem gambler increases with age. Men are more vulnerable to develop a gambling problem than women. People with a history of mental illness are also at increased risk. Gambling can lead to depression, debt, and even suicide. People with gambling disorders have the highest suicide rate of any other group.
Research on the causes of gambling problems has been hampered by lack of agreed nomenclature. Different research scientists, psychiatrists, and other treatment care clinicians use different paradigms or world views to frame questions about gambling.
Many factors contribute to gambling addiction, including genetic predisposition, environmental stresses, and life events. Gambling can become addictive when it interferes with a person’s daily functioning, causing them to spend more and more time gambling and neglecting other activities. In addition, gambling can cause financial ruin and can lead to serious legal consequences.
Gambling is harmful because it appeals to people’s greed and envy. It also promotes superstitions and luck rather than God’s sovereignty over the universe. It is a violation of the biblical work ethic which links honest labour with reward and discourages laziness. It is a form of idolatry, as the Apostle Paul warns: “You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Colossians 3:5)
There is no one test to diagnose a gambling disorder. A combination of psychological and environmental factors determines whether a person will become addicted to gambling. People who gamble in high quantities or for long periods of time are more likely to become a problem than those who gamble occasionally. People who play computer games, video and mobile phone games with a high level of difficulty are also at higher risk of becoming a problem gambler.
It is possible to overcome a gambling problem. To do so, a person must make changes to their lifestyle and relationships. They should set boundaries in managing their money; take control of family finances; review bank and credit card statements; and seek help if they are struggling. If someone you know has a gambling problem, try to set boundaries with them; talk to a professional counselor; and seek local referral resources for certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs. To learn more about these, see the Royal College of Psychiatrists website. This article is adapted from the National Council on Problem Gambling. Copyright