Gambling is a popular leisure activity that can be fun, but it can also cause harm. Problem gambling can lead to financial problems, relationship difficulties and family breakdown, depression, substance use disorders, work-related issues and health problems. It can also damage a person’s self-esteem and affect their quality of life. It’s important to get help if you have a gambling problem. Talk to a trained counsellor. They can help you find ways to cope and overcome your addiction.

Several different definitions of gambling harm have been proposed in the literature since Neal et al [1] and Currie et al [4]. However, these have not provided a consistent interpretation of harm, which is necessary for the development of effective measurement tools for gambling harm.

The current study aims to fill this gap by providing a functional definition of gambling related harm that enables it to be measured using standard epidemiological methods. In addition, this paper proposes a conceptual framework for harm that is experienced by the person who gambles, their affected others and their community consistent with social models of health. Finally, it provides a taxonomy of harms that utilises this new conceptual framework.

Problem gambling involves an uncontrollable urge to gamble and an inability to stop. It can lead to severe financial, emotional and personal consequences, including the loss of a job or home, and can lead to a wide range of mental and physical illnesses. It is associated with high rates of co-morbidity with other harmful behaviours and reduced health states, such as alcohol misuse and depression.

It is also linked to a variety of psychological factors, including an underactive brain reward system, impulsivity and low levels of self-control. It is also often a response to underlying mood disorders, such as depression and stress. People who have a family history of compulsive gambling are more likely to develop the disorder themselves.

There are many ways to reduce the urge to gamble, including taking up a healthy hobby, spending time with friends who don’t gamble and practicing relaxation exercises. It’s also a good idea to seek help for any underlying issues that may be contributing to your gambling problems, such as depression or stress.

If you are concerned that you have a gambling problem, speak to one of our trained and qualified counsellors. They can help you find a way to deal with your addiction and live a happy and fulfilling life. Their services are free, confidential and available 24/7. They can also refer you to other support services, such as financial counselling or Gamblers Anonymous. You can call our helpline on 1300 006 444 or book an appointment here. Alternatively, you can also access self-help resources on our website. We have a range of fact sheets and guides to help you manage your gambling problem. They cover topics such as money management, relationship issues and overcoming gambling addiction. You can find them in our fact sheets section or contact us for more information.