Gambling is an activity that involves risking money or something of value with an element of randomness and chance. It is done by betting on events such as horse and greyhound races, football accumulators, lotteries or elections, playing games of chance, like poker, fruit machines or two-up, or through speculating on business, insurance or stock markets. Some people have a problem with gambling and it can be a serious issue, causing them harm. Some of these stories are real, and come from people who have been helped by getting support to change their behaviour and make healthier choices.
Research has found that certain factors are associated with developing a gambling problem, including age, gender, the number of different gambling activities and modalities, and psychological factors such as depression or stress. However, associations between these factors and gambling problems are not fixed and may vary over time.
For some, gambling can become an escape from their everyday lives and can be portrayed in the media as glamorous, fun and exciting. It can also be a way to socialise with friends and family or can be used as a distraction. For others it can be a way to cope with underlying mood disorders such as anxiety or depression.
Some tips to help you gamble responsibly include: Only gambling with an amount of money that you are comfortable losing. Set a time limit for how long you are willing to play, and leave when you reach it. Don’t gamble when you are feeling depressed, sad or upset. Do not use credit or borrow money to gamble. Balance your gambling with other recreational and hobby activities.