Gambling is a form of risk-taking, whereby you place money or something else of value on the outcome of an event that involves chance (such as a scratchcard, fruit machine, or casino game). If you predict the outcome correctly, you win. If you’re wrong, you lose the amount that you put on the line.
Many people enjoy gambling because it triggers a chemical reaction in their brain that makes them feel good. But it’s important to remember that gambling is not a substitute for healthy behaviors like exercise, eating well, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or taking up a hobby. In fact, gambling can lead to unhealthy and harmful habits such as drinking or drugs and can also harm your relationships and financial situation.
Despite the growing interest in understanding gambling impacts, few studies have been conducted to measure social costs or benefits. While quantifying the economic costs is relatively straightforward, measuring social costs—or invisible costs—has proven difficult, since they are not easily captured in monetary terms.
Longitudinal studies are essential for exploring the complex interplay between individual and societal factors. However, they are expensive and challenging to conduct, and may be subject to a variety of biases (e.g., sample attrition, aging effects, and period effects).
If you’re struggling with problem gambling, it is crucial to reach out for support. There are many resources available, including support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also strengthen your support network by reaching out to friends who don’t gamble, joining a book club or sports team, taking up a new hobby, or practicing relaxation techniques.
