Gambling is an enjoyable social activity, but it can also be a problem. If gambling is becoming too much of a priority for you and it’s having a negative effect on your life, it’s time to seek help.

A Gambling Problem

The term ‘problem’ refers to a situation where you have an uncontrollable urge to gamble. It can affect your financial, social, emotional or mental health.

Some people gamble to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as boredom or a stressful day at work. But there are more effective ways of self-soothing and relaxing.

Addiction

There are many reasons why people have a problem with gambling, but it usually involves a compulsion or addiction to the activity. Symptoms include feeling an urge to gamble, losing control over your finances or your emotions and having a hard time controlling the amount of money you spend on gambling.

It can also involve lying to conceal your gambling habits and jeopardising your relationship, career or education opportunities because you are gambling too much.

Bankruptcy

The number of bankruptcy cases due to gambling has been documented in published news accounts and bankruptcy court opinions (Ison, 1995a). However, these are often region-specific, anecdotal, and poorly substantiated.

Economic Impact of Gambling

Gambling generates tax revenue, employment and other benefits for the economy. The impact on the economy is largely determined by the level of government taxation.