Gambling involves placing something of value on a random event with the intent of winning something else of value. It has many benefits to the gambler including happiness, stress reduction, increased social networking and improved brain performance due to relaxation and comfort. However, for some people gambling becomes problematic and can have a variety of negative personal, family, work and community/society impacts. Problem gambling has been described as harmful, distressing and addictive behaviour. Often, problem gamblers hide their gambling habits from friends and family, lie about the amount they spend or try to justify it as a way to relieve boredom or loneliness. It can also cause difficulties at work, lead to debt and even homelessness.
Gambling impacts can be observed at the personal, interpersonal and community/society level (Fig 1). At the personal level, effects induce effects on gamblers themselves, while at the interpersonal level they affect their friends, family and work colleagues. At the community/society level, gambling revenues can have positive long-term effects when partly directed towards beneficial causes.
If you are planning to gamble, set a budget and stick to it. Never chase your losses thinking you are due for a big win – this is known as the gambler’s fallacy and will only result in bigger losses. It’s important to remember that gambling is a form of entertainment, so it is important to enjoy yourself and not get caught up in the dream of hitting the jackpot.