Gambling: the “just once” trap
Gambling (games of chance and betting) is when you risk money or something valuable on an outcome that’s mostly based on luck. It can seem fun… but it can also become a problem faster than you think.
To remember
👉 Gambling can feel fun, but it can quickly turn into a serious problem and become addictive.
👉 If you’re playing more than planned or it starts taking over your life, it’s a sign to talk about it and get help.
What is gambling?
It can include: sports betting, poker, casinos, bingo, scratch tickets, lotteries, slot machines, online games… And sometimes it’s more sneaky: some video games encourage you to “try your luck” (for example: loot boxes, virtual items, etc.). If you’re paying for something random, it looks a lot like gambling.
If it’s so addictive, it’s because your brain loves this combo:
stress + excitement + hope of winning;
small wins that make you want to play again;
Not to mention the classic: “I’ll win it back” after a loss, which can make you bet more—and lose even more.
When do games of chance become risky?
It can be a warning sign if:
you spend more money / play longer than planned;
you often think about playing again;
gambling starts replacing your responsibilities (sleep, school, sports, or work);
you struggle to cut back or stop.
For most games, the odds are designed so that you lose more often than you win.
💡You can’t control luck, even if it feels like you can.
Do I have a gambling addiction?
It’s possible to develop an addiction to gambling, so if you feel like it’s taking up too much space in your daily life, in your mind, and in your wallet, talk about it. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes.
Here are some resources that can help:
