Gambling involves betting something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value. It is a popular leisure activity that has significant costs and benefits, which affect not only gamblers but also their families and society. The negative impacts are primarily related to problems with gambling but they may also include harms to health and wellbeing, such as a reduction in social capital or a decrease in community cohesion. Positive impacts are mainly related to increases in gambling revenues that can be partly directed towards public services.
People are often secretive about their gambling, perhaps believing that others will not understand or assuming they can “win back” their losses. They may increase their bets to try and make up for a loss, or lie about how much they have spent in order to convince family members that they are not losing money. They may even become enmeshed in debt, making it difficult to manage their finances. They may even resort to criminal activities to obtain cash, credit or property to support their gambling habit.
Problem gamblers are often depressed, lonely and have low self-esteem. They may also have difficulty coping with stress, relationships or work. They may have poor appetites and sleep habits, and have a higher risk of developing physical illnesses such as heart attacks. They may also be involved in substance misuse and other mental disorders. In severe cases, they may attempt suicide or be taken to hospital.