Gambling
Gambling is a form of entertainment for many people. It is a very popular leisure activity, with over £110 million staked per year.
There are many opportunities to gamble – casinos, betting shops, slot machines in pubs and clubs, the stock market, the National Lottery and now gambling over the internet.
With a large element of risk taking and a sense of skill and luck it can be fun and exciting. The anticipation of owning the ‘winning ticket’ that will pay all bills and debts – make dreams come true. But if it gets out of control, it can take over one’s life.
Compulsive gambling is an addiction, characterised by a need to gamble more often, bet more money with an inability to stop. Eventually this can lead to a disruption of life, financial difficulties, relationship breakdown, loss of employment, family and friends, health problems, and even attempted suicide.
It is a hidden addiction and difficult to spot. Unlike drug abuse and alcoholism there are no physical symptoms. Although problems are generally more prevalent in men, some ethnic groups and those on lower incomes.