Loss and Harm Through Gambling

The data collected in the research on loss and harm through gambling suggest that a substantial proportion of the population experience such harm. The data from the YouGov survey, for example, showed that 13% of those surveyed suffered losses and harm as a result of gambling, whereas an HSE report found that 4% suffered losses and harm due to gambling. However, these estimates are likely to underestimate the true extent of the problem. Furthermore, the types of harm experienced by the participants are also diverse, with various classifications for the effects on the gambler, their friends and family, and the wider community.

The most widespread form of emotional and psychological harm resulting from gambling is shame. This is experienced by gamblers and their families, and it spreads to other people in the community. Regardless of the level of gambling, shame is a significant factor, influencing the overall quality of life and resulting losses. It is related to other risk factors, including suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns, and financial harm. The most severe forms of gambling harm often include feelings of devaluation and diminished self-care.

These risks of gambling loss and harm are not just confined to the individual, but extend beyond a person’s lifetime. The consequences of gambling loss and harm include economic hardship, relationship conflicts, and intergenerational harm. The data shows that these harms often begin as threshold harms, but continue for decades despite the person ceasing to gamble. There are many ways in which gambling harm can continue, and they are important to understand.

In addition to financial losses, gambling harm may also cause other damages, such as relationship strain, bankruptcy, and decreased health. The loss and harm from gambling often involves the depletion of savings and discretionary expenditure, as well as the loss of social, artistic, or cultural activities. Additionally, it impacts relationships and primary employment. It is important to seek professional assistance to address the harm and losses associated with gambling. For example, many people suffering harm from gambling may have to take additional employment.

Other types of harms may be more difficult to assess, but the overall effects of the problem are similar. The financial loss is the most obvious, but relationship harm is the most difficult to measure. Financial loss and relationship breakdown are the most common consequences of gambling, while social isolation and exclusion are the most significant of all. Further, the harm to relationships can range from short-lived to lifelong, and are often associated with the loss of a relationship.

The research on loss and harm through gambling has many unresolved issues. The research should be able to identify a common pattern in the harm experienced by gamblers. These problems should be investigated and resolved to create better gambling programs. But, before that, the research needs to be rigorous and objective. A better framework will help us to identify what works and what doesn’t. Once we have a conceptual framework, we can start to evaluate gambling as a source of mental health issues.