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The Legacy of Gambling

The Legacy of Gambling

Gambling involves placing a bet or wager on an event, often with the aim of making money. It’s an activity that has been around since ancient times, and it remains a popular pastime for many people. However, for some it can become problematic and lead to serious harms – including financial stress, relationship breakdown and mental illness. These harms can have long term consequences that change the life course of the individual and are transmitted intergenerationally.

There are many forms of gambling – from playing card games at home, to betting on sports events like football matches or horse races with friends. Some are regulated and legal, others are not. The latter include games of chance that use dice, roulette, bingo and so on. There are also a range of online gambling websites and apps that allow people to place bets and gamble from any location with an internet connection, 24 hours a day. The digitalisation of gambling has made it easier to access than ever before.

Regardless of the type of gambling, it’s clear that it can be addictive. The brain responds to gambling in much the same way that it does to drugs. A ‘dopamine response’ is produced, resulting in the feeling of reward, which makes gambling very appealing. In addition, a sense of escapism and a desire to meet basic needs are often involved.

People who experience problems with gambling may develop them at any age. Vulnerable groups include young people, men (who tend to gamble more than women) and those who have low incomes and thus have more to lose. Those who have a pre-existing condition, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder, are also more likely to develop a gambling problem.

For those who have a gambling addiction, a major benefit of stopping is the return to financial stability. Money that had been spent on gambling can be directed to other areas, such as savings and investments. This can have positive long term impacts, especially if the money is used to reduce debt and help people plan for their futures with confidence.

Gambling can be a fun and social activity, but it’s important to recognise the signs of harmful behaviour and seek professional support if needed. By taking the courageous step of quitting, individuals can reclaim control of their lives and move forward with a healthier lifestyle. The legacy of harm from gambling can last a lifetime, so it’s important to take action now.