Gambling involves placing something of value (money) on a random event with the intent to gain something else of value. The activity can take many forms and has been a part of human history for centuries. The majority of individuals who gamble do so for social and entertainment purposes but a small percentage become addicted to gambling. When this occurs, it results in negative personal, family and societal impacts.
The process of gambling starts with the decision to place a bet. Whether it be a football match, horse race, scratchcard or lottery, the gambler makes a choice and then matches that choice to ‘odds’ that are set by the betting company. The odds determine how much money can be won if the gambler is correct. These odds can be either a specific amount or zero (i.e. the gambler wins nothing).
It is important to note that gambling causes external impacts and these are costs or benefits incurred by others rather than the gambler themselves. They can occur at a personal, interpersonal or community/society level and can be long-term in nature.
The most common reasons that people gamble include the desire to win money, for social reasons, to avoid boredom or as an escape from stress or anxiety. It is also important to understand that the person who is gambling is not necessarily a bad person. They may have a mental health condition that leads to them becoming preoccupied with gambling. If they are struggling with gambling, it is likely they will require professional help.
