Level B2 General English

Lesson 69

Lottery And Gambling
宝くじとギャンブル

Some people try gambling just because it seems like a fun activity. Maybe they will lose a little money or win a little money. But for some people gambling can become an addiction and they lose complete control of their actions. This could lead to losing their family or home. Some people steal money to fund their addiction almost like a drug addict. They become social outcasts.

Other reasons why people become addicted to gambling is because they have suffered some misfortune such as a family loss, frustration or a huge disappointment. People try to forget about their painful memories by indulging in gambling. This is a kind of escapism. However, it’s sometimes defined as pathological gambling.

To release yourself from the damaging cycle of gambling is extremely difficult and almost impossible to do on your own. There may be other dangers such as criminal organizations that offer to lend you money. Some people even commit suicide. So gambling addicts need help and support from both friends and family if they are to get back their lives. Organizations such as Gamblers Anonymous or professional counseling can often be a huge help.