A casino is a twinkly, noisy place where people try to win big money. But gambling isn’t just about the money – it also affects how we feel and think. The gambler’s brain releases dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter, and we often experience a rush when things go our way – but what happens when luck runs out? And what causes us to lose control of our gambling? This section looks at the risks of gambling, how it affects your mind and body, and what you can do if you are worried about your own or someone else’s behaviour.

This is a complex issue with many factors, and it is important to understand the risks and signs of problem gambling so that you can take action if necessary. We can help you if you are concerned about your own or somebody else’s gambling behaviour, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

While most people participate in gambling as an enjoyable social activity, some become excessively involved with it and continue to gamble despite substantial negative personal, family, and financial consequences. This is referred to as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling, and is identified by 10 warning signs:

These warning signs are taken from the diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling in the American Psychiatric Association’s official guide, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). These symptoms include:

The first sign of a problem is spending more time than you planned on gambling, even when you are not at a casino. You may start lying to your family, friends, or therapist to conceal how much you are gambling. You may also find that you are spending less and less on other life experiences, such as meals out, shopping, or leisure activities.

In addition to this, you may be experiencing stress, regret or guilt, which can be an indication that gambling is affecting how you feel and behave. If this is true for you, it might be worth thinking about other ways of spending your spare time and consider seeking non-judgemental support from a GamCare helpline.

The most common way that casinos make their profits is by reducing their profit margins and increasing turnover, so they can attract more customers and increase their share of the market. In order to achieve this, they usually reduce their maximum bet limits and offer bonuses such as free cocktails. They can also promote their offers by creating a high-profile brand or partnering with a celebrity. They may also use their location to their advantage by putting on events or advertising in local media. This can attract a lot of customers and increase their revenue. In addition to this, they can create a culture of loyalty and rewards for their players. This can also improve customer satisfaction and retention. This is a great way for them to compete with other casinos and improve their reputation. They can also hire more dealers and invest in training.