The Positive Effects of Gambling
Gambling is the act of placing something of value, typically money, at risk on an event or game that has an element of chance. This can be done through a number of ways including lottery tickets, cards, dice, slot machines, bingo games, instant scratch-off tickets, races, animal tracks, sports events, and even a coin toss. While it is important to remember that gambling can have negative effects, there are also some positive benefits associated with this activity.
Supporters of gambling argue that it attracts tourism dollars, promotes jobs, and can help struggling cities revitalize their moribund downtown areas. Some local governments even support gambling because of the tax revenue it brings in. But critics warn that it can lead to a host of social problems, from addiction to family breakups. They also point out that many problem gamblers run up huge debts and use their own personal savings, often to the detriment of their families. Moreover, they point out that problem gambling results in high health-related costs for treatment and lost productivity.
Harmful effects of gambling include: (1) a loss of self-esteem, self-respect, or confidence; (2) an emotional crisis, such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal feelings; (3) a feeling that one cannot stop gambling and has to “chase” their losses; (4) lying to a therapist or family members to conceal the extent of the gambling problem; and (5) the use of illegal acts, such as forgery, fraud, theft, embezzlement, and embezzlement to fund gambling. Despite the fact that some researchers, psychiatrists, and other treatment care clinicians have suggested that pathological gambling should be classified as an addiction, it has been impossible to develop standardized instruments with demonstrated psychometric properties to assess the presence of this disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2000).
Those who are considering a change in their gambling behavior should first consider the positive effects of such a move. Taking the step to stop gambling can make an immediate difference in a person’s financial stability, as funds that were being spent on losing bets or uncontrollable spending habits can now be used for more worthwhile investments. This can lead to better budgeting and the ability to save money for long-term goals. In addition, a person who stops gambling can rebuild his or her credit and may be able to reduce debts. For additional information about how to start the recovery process, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling for answers to frequently asked questions, a gambling behavior self-assessment and help finding treatment in your area. They can be reached at 1-800-GAMBLER. Alternatively, you can visit http://www.problemgambling.org/. This website provides a wide variety of resources, including information about treatments, a list of problem gambling support groups, and an online chat room to connect with a specialist who can answer your questions. The site also provides links to state-specific resources. It is free to call the hotline. Whether you are seeking information for yourself, a friend or a loved one.
