The Basics of Gambling
What does it mean to “gamble”?
Risking something of value (like money) for a chance to win more.
What brain chemical makes gambling feel rewarding?
Dopamine
What’s a financial consequence of gambling addiction?
Debt or loss of savings.
Who else can be affected by a person’s gambling problem?
Family and friends.
What’s a healthier way to get excitement or adrenaline?
Sports, hobbies, games, exercise, etc.
Name one common form of gambling
Sports betting, poker, lottery, online casinos, slot machines?
What’s the “gambler’s fallacy”?
Believing that past losses mean a win is “due.”
What might happen to school or job performance due to gambling?
It often declines because of distraction or stress.
What emotion do gamblers often feel after a big loss?
Regret or shame.
What’s one coping skill for managing stress instead of gambling?
Journaling, talking to a friend, mindfulness, exercise.
What’s the mathematical advantage most casinos always have?
The house edge
Why do people often chase their losses?
They want to win back what they lost. A key sign of addiction.
Name one long-term consequence of problem gambling.
Bankruptcy, broken relationships, or legal trouble.
Why can gambling become isolating?
People may hide their behavior or lose trust with others.
Name a resource or hotline for gambling help.
1-800-GAMBLER (US), local counseling centers.
True or False: Most gamblers end up making money over time.
False — most people lose money in the long run.
What’s one emotional effect of gambling addiction?
Anxiety, guilt, depression, or stress.
What’s one way gambling can affect a person’s credit or financial reputation?
Missed payments, loans, or borrowing money to gamble.
How might gambling affect friendships?
It can cause tension, lying, or borrowing money.
What’s one reason people turn to gambling that can be met in a healthier way?
Escaping stress → use relaxation or social support instead.
What’s one reason gambling can feel so exciting?
The “near-miss effect” and release of dopamine when we almost win.
True or False: The brain’s response to gambling can resemble a drug addiction.
True.
What percentage of problem gamblers experience depression?
Around 50–75%
What’s one warning sign that gambling is becoming a problem?
Hiding gambling, borrowing money, skipping obligations, etc.
Create one slogan or PSA line that warns about gambling risks. (Whichever one I like most wins)
Example: “Don’t bet your future — the odds aren’t worth it.”