Gambling involves the putting of something of value on a random event with an element of chance and with the hope of winning. It can involve anything from lottery tickets, betting on sporting events, and scratchcards to casino games like blackjack and poker. It is an activity that can cause severe harm, even when it’s done in moderation and with the intention of generating entertainment or a financial return. It can also be addictive and lead to comorbidity with other forms of harmful behavior.
Various frameworks have been developed to help address gambling-related harms in a holistic manner. The most prominent is probably the Reno model (Blaszczynski et al. 2004). This was one of the first strategic frameworks that positioned gambling as a public health issue. It sought to align responsible gambling with a public health approach by promoting risk-reduction strategies, setting clear metrics for harms, and adopting a collaborative planning process.
Other frameworks include the Problem Gambling Framework (Korn and Shaffer 1999) and the Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling (Abbott et al. 2018). The latter framework provides a holistic overview of gambling-related harms at the individual, community, and institutional levels and takes note of important contextual factors. It is based on the assumption that all levels of gambling harm are relevant to well-being.
Many people who suffer from gambling addiction believe they can’t live without it, and are reluctant to seek help for the problem. This is often because they’re embarrassed or feel shame about their addiction. They may also fear relapse or recurrence, or worry about the negative impact on their family and friends.
The desire to gamble is triggered by the reward center in the brain. It is similar to the way that chocolate or a good meal triggers feelings of pleasure. These cravings can be difficult to overcome, but there are things that you can do to help fight them.
Try to engage in activities that activate the reward centers of your brain, such as exercise, a fun hobby or spending time with loved ones. In addition, make sure to eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. It’s also helpful to learn healthier ways of relieving stress, such as meditation, listening to music or taking a walk.
It’s important to build a support network, and surround yourself with people who will help you stay strong when you’re struggling. If you can’t find support from your own network, consider finding a recovery group to join. A popular option is Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also check out self-exclusion programs in your area, which will allow you to ban yourself from casinos and other gambling venues. Lastly, practice mindfulness, which can help you focus on the present moment and avoid acting on impulse. By taking these steps, you can take control of your gambling habits and prevent them from affecting your life negatively. You can also download apps that will block any gambling-related content on your phone or computer.