Gambling has many effects on society, both positive and negative. The impacts are measured on a personal, interpersonal, and community level. Some of the impacts are long-term and significant, and may alter the course of an individual’s life. The effects on the individual may not be immediately visible or measurable, but they are often significant enough to make a difference in a society.
Many people with gambling problems find it difficult to control the urge to gamble and the negative impact this has on their lives. Free and confidential counselling can help. A counselor is available 24 hours a day and can help a person overcome their gambling addiction. Gambling addiction is a serious issue, so finding the right treatment is crucial.
Research has linked gambling to homelessness. Many people who are homeless report that their lack of housing was a direct result of gambling. Eighty-two percent of problem gamblers cited their gambling as the main cause of their homelessness. In addition, social interactions are another motivating factor for gambling. Furthermore, the motivation for gambling can be derived from the consumer’s desire to win money, or it may be a way of escaping the problems of their lives.
Gambling has also impacted employment levels. It has also negatively affected small businesses. Many of these businesses have experienced problems with recruiting and retaining staff. Gambling has increased competition amongst these businesses and can increase operating costs and inflation. Small businesses that rely on retail sales to survive are especially vulnerable to the effects of the gambling industry.