There are various types of costs associated with gambling. The most obvious costs are those incurred by individuals and companies, but there are also other, less tangible costs. These impacts are grouped into three main categories: economic costs, social costs, and health effects. Social costs are more difficult to quantify than financial costs, and they include harm to others, societal cost/benefits, and personal costs. However, a lot of the social costs associated with gambling are hard to quantify.
Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce your gambling. One way to help yourself reduce the negative emotional impact of gambling is to learn more about the odds involved. Compare your odds to other forms of entertainment. For example, winning the lottery is a one in 15 million chance, while getting hit by lightning is a one in 300,000 chance. If you think about it, there are fewer reasons to gamble than for fun. In addition, gambling can also relieve boredom and stress.
If you feel you’re suffering from a gambling addiction, it’s time to seek professional help. BetterHelp is a free online counseling service that matches you with a licensed, professional therapist. It’s supported by readers like you, but the links above may earn you a small commission. Though admitting that you have a gambling problem is difficult, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Many others have struggled with gambling problems and have overcome it.