Gambling is an activity where someone risks something of value on an event that is mainly chance in the hopes of realizing a profit. This activity has been a part of virtually every society since prerecorded history and is incorporated into many local customs and rites of passage. While gambling is a popular and profitable pastime for some, for others it is a destructive and harmful activity. Problem gambling can be devastating for families and communities, resulting in lost work opportunities, broken relationships, financial crises and even suicide.
For some people, problem gambling can be triggered by certain biological factors including an underactive brain reward system and genetic predisposition to thrill-seeking behaviour and impulsivity. These are often exacerbated by environmental factors, such as living in close proximity to gambling venues. Other triggers include stress, boredom or frustration. Gambling can be a form of escape and an outlet for negative feelings. It can also be used as a means to celebrate good times.
Gambling creates impacts that affect the gambler at the personal, interpersonal and community/societal levels (Fig 1). These impacts can be negative or positive and include costs and benefits. Costs include monetary and non-monetary costs. The latter includes the time and energy gamblers spend on the activity, as well as the consequences of their behaviour. Examples of the latter include chasing losses (the belief that one is due for a big win to recoup past losses) and lying to family members or therapists to conceal involvement with gambling.