Can Gambling Cause Health Problems?

5 min read
Feb 12, 2024, 8:45 PM
Struggling with Gambling Addiction? Support is Available.

If you or someone you know is battling gambling addiction, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) or Gamblers Anonymous. For immediate support call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Our resources are here to help prevent problem gambling habits before they start.

Gambling Effects on Health

Gambling can have both positive and negative effects on health. For some people, gambling can be a source of enjoyment, where people can experience a break from daily life, and also can act as a socializing tool where people can come together. 

All this can have a positive impact on the mental health of the people. However, it is important to note that these positive effects of gambling are only applicable when gambling is done responsibly and in moderation.  

Unfortunately, gambling can also lead to health problems, particularly if it becomes an addiction. 

Gambling addiction can have serious negative effects on mental and physical health. Here are some of the potential physical and mental health problems that may be caused by gambling addiction.

Stress

Gambling addiction can cause stress in some individuals. The financial and emotional consequences of gambling can lead to feelings of anxiety and worry. In addition, the unpredictability of gambling outcomes can cause stress for some people.

Depression
Gambling addiction can lead to depression in some individuals. The financial and emotional consequences of gambling can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness. In addition, the isolation and social problems that can result from gambling addiction can contribute to the development of depression.

Sleeping Disorders

Gambling addiction can lead to certain sleeping disorders.

  • Difficulty falling asleep because of anxiety and stress, which can make it difficult for some people to fall asleep.
  • Difficulty staying asleep, some people with gambling addiction may have racing thoughts or worries that keep them awake at night.
  • Oversleeping, pathological gamblers can lead with changes in their routine, which can result in oversleeping.
  • Poor sleep quality, gambling  addiction can lead to poor sleep quality, as individuals may not get the restful, restorative sleep they need.

Weight Gain Or Loss

Gambling addiction can lead to weight gain or weight loss in some individuals. Some people with gambling addiction may eat more or less due to stress or changes in their routine. This can lead to weight gain or weight loss.

Headaches

Gambling addiction can lead to headaches in some individuals. Headaches can be a common symptom of stress, and gambling addiction can cause stress due to the financial and emotional consequences it can have.

Heart And Cardiovascular Problems

Gambling addiction can increase the risk of developing heart problems in some individuals. The stress and anxiety associated with gambling addiction can contribute to the development of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.

Substance Abuse

Some people with gambling addiction may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the stress and negative emotions associated with gambling. This can lead to substance abuse problems, which can have a negative impact on health.

Stay Sharp

It is important to be aware of the mental and physical risks gambling has and to seek help if you are experiencing negative consequences. 

There are many resources available to help people with a gambling addiction, including therapy, support groups, and medication. These resources can help people address the underlying causes of their mental health problems and improve their overall health.

<p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#000000;">Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project&nbsp;</span></p><blockquote><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#000000;">&nbsp;“Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.</span></p></blockquote>
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Paruyr Shahbazyan

Paruyr Shahbazyan started his business career as an entrepreneur in 2000. Over 13 years, he learned business and leadership, which laid the foundation for his career.

In 2013, Paruyr entered the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating, an online media platform he led until 2020. The platform focuses on in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting and has gained a reputation for quality content.

In 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This shows his commitment to technology in the sports betting space. Through all these experiences, Paruyr has been shaping and influencing the betting industry, setting new trends and standards.

Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports.

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