Public Health and Gambling
Gambling involves the wagering of money or other items of value on a random event with the hope of winning a prize. It is a common leisure time activity that has major social and economic impacts not only on gamblers but also on their significant others, families, and society. Moreover, gambling may contribute to other negative outcomes such as crime, substance abuse, and mental health problems.
People gamble for many reasons, from the adrenaline rush of winning money to socialising and escaping their worries. But when gambling becomes addictive, it can take over a person’s life. It’s important to know the signs of a gambling addiction and to seek help.
Whether or not you’re a gambler, if someone close to you is gambling and it’s causing harm to their relationships, family, finances or health, you can take steps to help them break the cycle. The first step is to set boundaries and ensure their money is safe, especially if they are spending more than they can afford. You should also stop giving them cash tips and instead use chips when they come by (it’s easier for the dealers to keep track of).
Depending on which perspective you choose, gambling can be seen as an individual’s social pathology, a societal menace, a viable strategy for economic development, or a source of revenue to support community development projects. Each of these perspectives has merits. However, it is important to examine the costs and benefits of gambling in a holistic way by using a public health approach.
