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What is gambling?

Gambling is the activity where an individual risks money or something of value on an unknown outcome in hopes of gaining something of value (money, prize, possession, etc.). When gambling, you might leave with less money than you started off with, and sometimes with nothing at all.

Gambling takes many forms. It can be playing lottery games, playing casino games, betting on sports or events, or bingo. Many people enjoy gambling, whether it’s the excitement of taking a chance on a big outcome, or taking part in gambling on a more regular basis as a form of entertainment. Gambling is not a bad thing, but there are risks and it is important to be informed on the odds and outcomes of each gambling activity, so that informed and safer choices can be made.

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Why do people gamble?

For starters, risk taking. The sense of anticipation creates a natural high, an adrenalin rush, a feeling that many individuals seek out in their fun and entertainment choices, even to the point that some will believe that they cannot live without it. Yet, there is the misperception of many that gambling is actually a low-risk, high reward entertainment choice. It’s actually a high-risk, low reward situation. The odds always favor the house. Despite this, individuals seek out the excitement of “hitting it big,” regardless of the probability.

For some individuals, gambling is a way to be social with their friends and co-workers; the media reinforces this by portraying gambling as fun, sexy, glamorous and fashionable. For others, gambling can be a way to get away and be surrounded by different people, sounds and emotions. Whether it be financial problems, boredom, depression, grieving, or not wanting to think or worry about their troubles, gambling for some is seen as a way to escape from and cope with life.  

Anyone can develop a problem with gambling. Individuals who have problems related to their gambling come from many backgrounds. They can be rich or poor, young or old, male or female. Problem gambling can affect people of every race, every religion, and every education and income level. It happens in small towns or big cities.

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Phases of gambling

Pathways model of assessment was developed in 2002 by Blaszczynski and Nower which identifies three distinct pathways to disordered gambling.

  • Behaviorally Conditioned: Individuals initially engage in gambling for recreational or social reasons but begin to believe they can win and eventually the losses become significant.
  • Emotionally Vulnerable: Individuals initially chose gambling to reduce or help them escape from preexisting issues.
  • Antisocial Impulsivity: Individuals may have a history of other impulsive traits and may also experience impacts from alcohol, tobacco, drugs or other high-risk behaviors.
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Gambling's effects on the brain

Research has found that gambling activates the brain's reward system in much the same way that alcohol or other drugs do. Just like alcohol and other drugs, some individuals may be more prone to developing problems. As an individual gambles more, it can overstimulate the brain’s reward system, causing a reaction in the brain that reduces the level of pleasure felt. This change in brain chemistry causes the individual to gamble more to feel the pleasure they seek.

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Types of gambling

Most gambling games can be categorized into two categories; those that are chance-based, and those that are skill-based games. It is important to know that while chance plays a greater role in chance-based games, chance is a big factor in skill-based games. 

Chance-based gambling

Chance-based gambling is 100% dependent on chance. You have no way to affect or influence how the game will end, and whether you’ll win or lose the bet.

  • Bingo
  • Casino table games
  • Keno
  • Lottery daily numbers (Mega Millions®, Powerball®)
  • Lottery Pull-tabs
  • Lottery Scratch tickets
  • Roulette
  • Slot machines
  • Video Poker/Keno/Blackjack

Individuals who engage in chance-based gambling can get into trouble by overestimating the degree of control they have over the outcome of the game.

Skill-based gambling

With skill-based gambling, you have some influence, but chance remains a factor in the outcome.

  • Individuals can use betting strategies and techniques based on related knowledge or other individuals’ decisions and behavior.
  • Blackjack
  • Fantasy Sports Contests
  • Poker
  • Racetrack betting (horses/dogs)
  • Sports Betting

With skill-based gambling, you can get yourself into trouble by overestimating your skill level and the amount of control you have over the outcome of a game.

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Gambling can be addictive and cause harm

In the last 12 months:

  1. Gambles now more than before.
  2. Trying to stop or cut down seems hard.
  3. Trying to stop but just keep going back.
  4. Often thinks about past wins or times when gambling was fun. Continue to think about gambling and planning the next time.
  5. Gambles to help relieve stress or pain.
  6. Returns to gamble to win back lost money.
  7. Keeps the extent of gambling from others.
  8. Jeopardized a job or a relationship due to gambling.
  9. Borrowed money or used credit cards to relieve a situation caused by gambling. 
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Get help

If you think you or a loved one may have a problem with alcohol use, drug use, gambling or their mental health, reach out to Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support. 

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Gambling frequently asked questions

Are slot machines "due to hit the big one" sometimes?

Slot machines don't have a memory. All modern slot machines are state-of-the-art. They use sophisticated computer chips programmed to abide by state laws. In general, a slot machine is never "due to hit the big one." It's always random. 

Can you be "good" at gambling so you don't lose?

You can't increase your odds of winning a game of chance by practicing more or studying the game. Common games of chance are dice, playing cards and roulette wheels. They depend on luck, not skill.

Understanding how these games work can help you make informed decisions. You can decide whether to continue playing, take a break or stop playing. 

Are you more likely to win if you play longer?

No. You may think you can break a losing streak by continuing to gamble. That is not the case. When gambling, time is not on your side. The odds are set up so that the longer you play, the more likely you will lose. It's simple math and it always favors the gaming operator.

Reach Your Potential

Recovery is possible

Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. And it's possible for everyone.

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