Online Gambling is an activity where players bet and play games for money through internet connected devices such as computers, mobile phones or tablets. The process is quite similar to traditional gambling whereby winning games or bets are credited to your account and losses deducted. The main advantage of online gambling is that there is a wide variety of games to choose from whereas physical casinos may only offer a limited number of options.
Aside from convenience, online gaming offers social connection and learning opportunities. For example, online gambling platforms allow gamers to connect with like-minded people from around the world. This can help prevent loneliness and isolation and has been linked to positive mental health. Additionally, online gambling can also be a great way to learn new skills, especially for games that involve strategic thinking and problem-solving.
However, it is important to note that online gambling can be addictive and can have negative impacts on your mental health if not managed properly. The good news is that there are many treatment options for people struggling with gambling addiction, including therapy and support groups. Some people even find that medication can be helpful. In addition, a healthy balance between gambling and other activities is essential for maintaining long-term recovery from addiction. To help with this, we recommend following the tips in our article about How to Deal with Online Gambling. Lorna Ponambalum is a highly-experienced designated safeguarding lead and senior leadership education professional. She supports staff to develop and implement systems that ensure children’s safety is prioritised.