Gambling is a fun way to spend time and money, but for some people it can become a problem. If you’re worried about a loved one’s gambling, there are services available to help.
What is gambling?
Gambling is an activity that involves risk, such as playing the lottery or roulette. If you predict the outcome correctly, you win money; if you don’t, you lose it.
How can I know if my partner or family member has a gambling problem?
If you suspect your loved one is gambling too much, it’s important to try to understand what motivates them. This will help you to support them and help them to stop.
The four main reasons people gamble are:
For social purposes – this may be to make a social gathering more enjoyable, or it might be because they enjoy thinking about what they would do if they won the jackpot.
To win money – this might be to buy new things, or it could be because they like the feeling of winning or getting that ‘rush’.
Entertainment – this is because it makes them feel good and helps them forget about their worries.
The odds are against you – this is why it’s important to budget for gambling, and not expect to win.
If you’re worried about your own gambling or a loved one’s, contact us for more information and advice. We’re here to offer free, confidential support.
Mental health professionals have developed criteria that help to identify gambling problems and diagnose addiction. These are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association.