Gambling is a social activity that involves betting something of value, such as money or property, on the outcome of an uncertain event. It involves risk and hope of gain and can be a dangerous addiction. People who gamble can suffer a range of harms, including social, economic and family. Harms can be general or specific, and may include reduced engagement in the community; lower performance at work or study; or social deviance (such as theft, robbery, assault and drug abuse). They can also include legacy impacts that last beyond an individual’s gambling experience (e.g. family inheritance).
Among the most common forms of gambling are casino games and lotteries. These games involve betting on the outcome of a game, contest or other uncertain event and can have different outcomes depending on luck or skill. They can be addictive, and can cause severe financial problems for many people. Often, the problem is compounded by personal traits and coexisting mental health issues. These include mood disorders, such as depression and stress, which can trigger or make worse compulsive gambling. It can also be caused by personality traits, such as impulsivity and a desire for immediate rewards.
While most individuals enjoy gambling as an enjoyable social activity, a small group become too serious about it and continue to gamble despite substantial and negative personal, family and community consequences. The primary motivations for gambling are usually money and the dream of winning. However, some people use gambling to help relieve boredom or as a distraction from their daily life.
It is estimated that more than a million Australians experience gambling problems. The problem is a significant public health issue and has an impact on communities, families and the economy. The cost of the problem is estimated at A$5 billion annually. This includes social costs, such as increased crime and domestic violence; economic costs, including lost wages and productivity; and psychological and emotional costs, such as stress, anxiety and depression.
There are several ways to prevent gambling problems. Talking to a trusted friend or professional counsellor can be helpful, as can learning relaxation techniques. If you have a problem, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
There are a number of strategies for reducing gambling harms, including risk assessment and intervention programs. Evidence-based lower-risk guidelines can be used in public health messaging and in regulating gambling products and services. This will help reduce harms and improve the quality of life for all Australians. In addition, pharmacological treatments, such as the opioid antagonists naltrexone and nalmefene, have been shown to be effective in decreasing gambling behaviour. However, further research is needed to assess whether these drugs are effective in preventing gambling disorder and other related disorders. There are also a variety of community and societal level interventions that can be implemented to reduce the negative effects of gambling. These can be categorized into three classes: financial, labour and health, and well-being.