What is gambling?

Gambling might seem harmless, but it can have a big impact on your brain, emotions and behaviour. When you lose control over your gambling, it can become an addiction. This can affect your health, your feelings and your relationships with others. If you notice gambling is having more of an effect on you than you would like – or you’re worried about someone else – you can get free and confidential support via WhatsApp, live chat or phone.

What counts as gambling?

Gambling is a game in which you bet money in the hope of winning more money. You don’t know in advance whether you’ll win or lose, because it depends on luck. Gambling takes place in various ways, such as scratch cards, slot machines, sports betting or in a casino. Some people find gambling exciting or fun, but it can also cause problems if you play too often or spend too much money.

How do gambling companies work?

Gambling companies want players to have fun, but of course they also want to make a profit themselves. To achieve this, they use various methods to make gambling attractive and exciting. In this text, you can read about how gambling companies work and what goes on behind the scenes.

What is gambling?

Top ten risks of gambling

Gambling often seems harmless and exciting, but it also carries risks. If you’re unaware of these risks, you can get into trouble faster than you think. In this article, you’ll read about 10 risks of gambling. This will help you know what to look out for and how to protect yourself.

1. Financial problems

You can lose a lot of money by gambling. You could lose your savings or get into debt. Always make sure you know how much money you are spending.

2. Relationship problems

Gambling can cause conflicts with your partner, family, or friends.

3. Stress, anxiety, or depression

Because of the problems gambling can cause, such as financial issues or relationship problems, you may feel down or angry. It can also cause a lot of stress. At times like these, talk to someone you trust.

4. Problems at school or work

Spending a lot of time on gambling can make it hard to concentrate. School and work may suffer. You could even lose your job or be unable to complete your education. Decide in advance the time you want to play and stick to it.

5. Gambling addiction

You can develop an addiction to gambling. You want to keep playing, even if it causes you problems. Get help if you feel you are losing control.

6. Behaviour that bothers others

Some people who gamble will steal or lie to get money. Get help if you notice that you're losing control.

7. You lose people

You can lose friends and family when all you do is gamble. You become more and more isolated.

8. Trouble sleeping

You think a lot about gambling or worry about money. This can cause poor sleep. Try to stop in time and take breaks.

9. You think you are going to win

Many people who gamble think they can win back the money they have lost. They therefore continue to gamble, often losing even more money. They may also lose friends and family.

10. Your family or children may suffer

If you have a family or children, they may also be affected by your gambling behaviour. Think of financial problems or tension at home.

Risks of illegal gambling

Illegal gambling carries many risks. If you want to gamble, make sure you do so at a licensed gambling company. Not sure whether a gambling company is legal? You can easily check this in the Kansspelwijzer. What are the risks of illegal gambling?