Gambling is the act of risking something of value – usually money – to attempt to predict the outcomes of events involving chance. These events could range from betting on football teams or scratchcards to betting on election outcomes or playing lotteries; those who correctly predict these outcomes win money. Those who make incorrect predictions lose everything they had bet.
Gambling has been associated with several negative health impacts, such as relationship difficulties with family and friends, financial hardships, emotional distress and even depression. Yet studies have also demonstrated its positive benefits such as helping reduce stress levels and boost happiness levels if conducted responsibly; should someone begin experiencing any difficulties they should seek professional assistance immediately.
Many people gamble for the thrill of winning and socialization purposes. Gambling can also be addictive and cause mental health issues; many may not realize when they have a problem; it is therefore essential that treatment be sought if this occurs.
Pathological gambling is an underlying condition with potentially severe repercussions, yet primary care clinicians are reluctant to screen or treat this problem because it involves legal, non-drug related behavior without physical symptoms. Yet there has been an emerging role in primary care settings to assess patients’ gambling behaviors in order to identify those at risk for developing problem gambling.
This article’s primary goal is to explore complementary and contrasting methodologies in order to produce a conceptual model for assessing gambling impacts from a public health standpoint. This approach employs quality of life weights – known as disability weights – as a measure of intangible social costs and benefits, while taking into account various factors likely to influence decisions regarding gambling interventions.
Gambling provides revenue for local and state governments while creating jobs – in Las Vegas alone over 60% of workers are employed in casino-related jobs! Gambling also serves as entertainment among idlers who might otherwise engage in criminal activities such as burglary, robbery and drug peddling; therefore helping lower crime rates where gambling is prevalent. Finally, revenues generated from gambling often support social services in society – this factor alone is critical when assessing its overall effect.