As applications for the opening of controversial gaming outlets appear to be on the increase, fresh concern is picking up among those who see gambling as one of the serious problems of modern society.
Many people gamble at some point in their lives. For the vast majority, this entails participating in the weekly lotto draw, or in occasional tombola gatherings, or placing a bet on a sports match now and again.
Most of the people do realise the risks involved and succeed in striking the right balance. However, there are others for whom betting and playing games to win money can become a serious addiction, which can get out of control.
Compulsive gambling can have serious consequences on individuals, families and society in general. Victims can become withdrawn and depressed, with adverse effects on their personal lives and their relationships with others.
Soliciting gambling reforms, Australia’s Anglican Bishops recently stated that, as Church leaders, they know the costs of problem gambling for the individuals and their families: suicide, depression, marriage breakdowns, job losses, bankruptcy and crime. They also noted that, through their parishes and Anglicare programmes, “we continue to provide assistance to problem gamblers and their families, seeking also to educate against addiction”.
Gambling can be very addictive. Researchers say the adrenaline rush associated with the possibility of pulling off a big win is often described by gamblers as an unbeatable feeling. It is therefore not difficult to understand how people get hooked on gambling, especially if they have the means to access gambling outlets 24 hours a day. The more gambling facilities there are at the very heart of towns and villages, together with the long list of online betting shops and gaming sites, the more the problem is bound to develop.
Most people have enough self-discipline to stop in time if they start losing when gambling. However, for others, the possibility of a win remains extremely enticing and will carry on going in the hope that they will finally win, regardless of how much money they lose along the way. In such situations, debts could spiral out of control, also opening the door to usury. It is known that there exists a strong relationship between usury and compulsive gambling and that the majority of those who fall victim to usury are compulsive gamblers.
Having state and Church programmes available for gamblers who decide to seek help is obviously wise and good. However, it seems that many people who could be defined as problem gamblers do not seek help for their addiction.
Many questions arise. What statistics exist about the gaming and gambling realities of society? How extensive is the gambling problem? How is the pattern forming itself? Who are the people with the most vulnerable social background? Which areas are the most hit and so need stronger protection? Are we satisfied with the kind of education being offered to the community against all kinds of gambling?
The reasons that can lead to compulsive gambling, which is just as harmful as alcohol and drug dependence, often point towards a culture that might be losing the true meaning of social life. It is therefore urgent to make it part and parcel of our national educational priorities to work more effectively on the principle that, also in the area of gambling, prevention is better than cure.
The basic message should be that even certain forms of gambling that may appear harmless at first could easily lead to bad habits.