Summary
Gambling is when you bet money or personal belongings on an outcome (like maybe someone would bet money on a football team winning), hoping to win a bigger reward if you get the outcome you want. Of course if you lose the bet, you lose your money or belongings. Some people gamble for fun, but it can become a problem. Read more to find out more about different types of gambling, and how it can become a problem.
Gambling is an act which involves betting money or sometimes personal belongings with the aim of winning a reward. This act can result in a win or a loss.
Why do people gamble?
People sometimes gamble for enjoyment. Gambling can, however, also become a habit or an addiction for some. It can cause difficulties for these people and the people around them.
What does gambling involve?
Gambling can include:
- Casinos
- Arcades
- Bookmakers or betting shops
- Scratch cards or lotto tickets
- Apps or betting websites
Legal Ages
In Ireland a person must be over the age of 18 to be in a bookmakers, buy a lotto ticket or legally gamble. A young person can engage in gaming at an amusement hall or funfair from the age of 16.
What are the signs someone might be struggling with gambling?
- Borrowing money to gamble.
- Spending a lot of time online using gambling sites or apps.
- An increased interest in news sites and sports results.
- No explanation for having large amounts of cash or expensive items.
- Intense mood swings, especially after winning or losing a bet.
It’s natural to be worried about a loved one’s gambling habits
It’s natural to be worried about a loved one’s gambling habits
- Gambling may affect a person’s relationship with their family or friends.
- Gambling may lead to money problems or difficulties.
- Even if a person is losing money, friends and family, they may continue to gamble.
- It’s important to remember that you’re not responsible for a person who gambles, and they have the right to access support.
A right to support
People of all ages may be affected by gambling – a parent, a carer or even a young person. It’s important to remember that you are not responsible for a person who gambles – they, and you, have a right to support.
If you are worried about your own habits or a loved one’s, you’re not alone. Childline is here to listen to you and support you.
Key takeaways
- Gambling is an age-restricted activity.
- Gambling is designed so that the person gambling is always mor likely to lose money than win.
- It can become a problem or an addiction for people.
- It’s natural to be worried about someone’s gambling habits.
- You are not responsible for the gambling habits of a loved one.
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