“The greatest strength you have as a human being is the ability to ask for help”

The gambling commission report finds that more than 2 million people are addicted to gambling or at risk of developing a problem.

This week we take a closer look at mental health issues and the relationship with problem gamblers. According to the study at The Royal College of Psychiatrists, problem gamblers are more likely to suffer symptoms of mental health issues including, mood swings, low self-esteem, having suicidal thoughts, withdrawal from friends and family, and excessive anger. If you feel any of these or most of them, then you should seek medical advice by calling your local GP or one of the help lines, that can be easily found online.

There are many different forms of gambling, but I am primarily focusing on horse racing. A sport with tremendous high’s when backing a big price winner and excruciating lows when beaten by a short head in a photo finish. It can become the greatest sport, and one you say you will never touch again all in the same day.]

Many of us would love to sail off into the sunset having bagged our big horse accumulator and live out our days, but the harsh truth of the matter is that that is unlikely to happen. Instead we hope to make small profits each day/week to give the sense of enjoyment and profit from a game I am sure we all love.

Bad run’s or unlucky streaks effect every single punter on the planet, but it is how you deal with those unlucky 2nds and those “bad jockey rides” that really can define what type of gambler you are. Nobody likes losing, but it is a gamble because there are certain risk factors to one’s pocket. “Only bet what you can afford” is almost easier said than done on a bad day and chasing your loses only leads down one dark and unpleasant road, before you know it you having to make excuses to your partner/parents or friends on why you can’t go out with them tonight. These are all signs that mental health issues may be arising

If you feel that your gambling is becoming out of control and the above paragraphs sound like your typical weekend, then asking for help is your first step on the road to taking control of your future. Previously people have seen asking for help as vulnerability or a weakness, when in fact the greatest strength you have as a human being is being able to ask for help. Being brave and making those first steps may enable YOU to help others.

You are lucky enough to have help waiting for you, go and seek your help and encourage others to you never know just how much someone might need it

Article by Daryl Carter