Problem gambling has many negative effects, not only on the individual, but also on society as a whole. Even if a person stops gambling, the effects will be long-term. Moreover, gambling is very profitable to the industry, and this money can go to other good causes. For this reason, there are several ways to curb problem gambling before it becomes too late. Listed below are some tips to prevent problem gambling from taking hold of your life.
The social costs of gambling are difficult to quantify, but it can be seen on several levels, including personal, interpersonal, and community levels. The economic costs of gambling can be measured, but social costs are often overlooked. Hence, a social cost of gambling should be measured and compared to the effects of alcohol. This will allow policymakers to make informed decisions. For instance, government policies on gambling should not encourage an individual to gamble if it is harmful for society.
The legal consequences of gambling are varied, from a few hundred dollars to years in jail. A misdemeanor conviction for gambling may include a few months to one year of jail, while a felony conviction could result in a sentence of up to ten years. More serious cases, particularly in organized professional gambling environments, may result in felony charges. Apart from jail sentences, fines for gambling offenses can also include fines. Fines for misdemeanors are usually limited to a few hundred dollars, while felony charges can reach up to twenty thousand dollars.