Gambling is a popular pastime and can be a fun way to spend time with friends. However, it can also lead to harm if people don’t have the right knowledge and understand how gambling works.

Why people gamble

Gambling can be a great way to relax and relieve stress. It releases endorphins in the brain, which reduce stress and improve concentration. It’s also a great way to socialise with people from different backgrounds and help you develop empathy towards others.

Problem gambling is a harmful behaviour and can cause serious problems in a person’s life. It can affect their mental health, relationships and performance at work or study. It can also lead to debt and homelessness.

It can also have a negative impact on your family and friends. It can be hard to stop, so you need to talk to someone about it.

You can find out more about gambling by speaking to a counsellor or StepChange. They are free, confidential and available 24/7.

The impact of gambling can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on where you live and how you approach it. If you gamble, make sure that you don’t overspend and don’t use money that you need to pay for essentials, such as bills or your living expenses.

Some people gamble to alleviate stress or to take their mind off something else, such as a problem at work or a family conflict. They may also gamble to feel better about themselves or to try and win a jackpot.