Occasional gambling can be a fun activity, but if you or someone you know is relying on it to make money, escape from difficult thoughts or situations, or spend more than they can afford to lose, it can be harmful. If you have concerns about your or a loved one’s gambling habits, speak to a friend or family member, try another hobby or get non-judgemental support from GamCare.
Gambling is a type of chance activity where the outcome is determined by random events (Oxford English Dictionary, 1989). Skill can improve the probability of winning but it is not considered gambling. For example, a person’s knowledge of card-playing strategies can enhance their chances in a poker game, but a horse race is completely random.
Pathological gambling is a complex and treatable condition characterized by compulsive, intrusive, and self-destructive behaviours. It is not a crime, but it can have a devastating impact on people’s lives and cause many problems.
Symptoms include lying to family members or therapists about the extent of their gambling; spending more than they can afford to lose; returning to gamble after losing money in order to recoup losses (“chasing losses”), and using illegal means to finance gambling (stealing, fraud, embezzlement, etc.). People in this group often experience severe financial distress, depression, and anxiety, which can have a negative effect on their quality of life. They are also more likely to develop poor health habits, including drug and alcohol abuse, and to have relationships that are unstable or break up.