Gambling involves risking something of value on an activity that is based on chance in the hope of gaining a profit. It is part of the human experience and has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history. Whether through sports betting, casinos, scratch tickets, or DIY investing, gambling has positive and negative impacts on the community.
The positive impact of gambling is a result of its stimulation of local economies. Casinos, for example, create employment opportunities and increase consumer spending. In addition, casinos often support charitable causes by donating a portion of their profits.
On the flip side, people with a gambling disorder can negatively affect their families, work and education. They may downplay or lie about their gambling behaviors and rely on family, friends and colleagues to fund their addiction. They can also feel resentment towards family members for exposing them to their gambling activities. Despite the negative effects of gambling, it can be treated with therapy and professional intervention.
Biologically, humans are wired to seek rewards. The brain releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter that makes us happy when we engage in healthy behaviours like exercising, spending time with loved ones, or eating a nutritious meal. However, a person with a gambling disorder may find it difficult to stop the cycle of highs and lows associated with their gambling activities, even when they are losing.
People who suffer from gambling disorders often have coexisting mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. They can also have personality traits that are more prone to thrill-seeking behaviours and impulsivity, such as an underactive reward center in the brain or a tendency to act before thinking.