A recent study reveals that if online gambling fails to make you happy, it is likely time to quit.

This may sound simple, but if you don’t enjoy a leisure activity, it’s usually wise to stop and find a replacement. 

Continuing to gamble, especially online, while unsatisfied can sharply increase your addiction risk.

“Gambling satisfaction was strongly predictive of problem gambling risk status, with lower [satisfaction] scores observed among higher-risk customers,” said a paper titled “Predicting Problem Gambling Among Online Bettors.”

“This novel variable is likely less biased than directly asking customers about their experience of gambling harms as people may deny and/or fail to recognise these,” the paper added. “We recommend further research to explore the concept of gambling satisfaction and its value as an indicator of risk.”​

According to Sally Gainsbury, one of the co-authors of the paper, the research team “didn’t expect” to find gambling satisfaction to be the “most useful indicator.”

What this Means for You

Dissatisfaction with online gambling doesn’t always mean addiction, but it signals that the activity isn’t suitable for you.

Satisfaction means feeling pleasure, contentment, or fulfillment when a need or goal is met.

Gambling does not lead to wealth or provide a reliable income. Games are built for you to lose money over time. Finding gambling dull or unpleasant, rather than making you happy, is normal.

For a few, online gambling is a harmless pastime. The industry calls gambling “entertainment.” If your experience turns negative, consider stopping and seeking a different activity right away.​

Track your gambling satisfaction by journaling before, during, and after play. You can also talk with friends or family about your experiences. Remember that gambling games are addictive products.

Does Gambling Make People Happy?

Gambling can make some people happy, but for many, it causes stress and harm.

Due to design features, online gambling can greatly diminish the chance of genuine enjoyment from gambling. But if gambling in any setting makes you unhappy, take a break or stop.

New research links self-reported gambling dissatisfaction to high risk of gambling-related harm.

If gambling makes you dissatisfied, don’t ignore these feelings. Consider stopping before negative consequences appear, and focus on your well-being.​

Are Gamblers Happier Than Non-Gamblers?

This depends on individual circumstances. For example, gambling in a social setting may offer interaction that some prefer over staying home. It is possible to gamble without adverse effects.

There is research suggesting that elderly people can be happy from gambling. They can find social and health benefits from the activity. However, there are many cases of casinos preying on older visitors.

Generally, gambling frequently erodes happiness over time, particularly online. It triggers stress and addiction by affecting hormone levels such as cortisol and dopamine.

If you gamble, do so socially with others, not alone online. To pass the time on your phone, choose non-gambling games. Also avoid products that mimic gambling with “free play” features such as NFL Super Bowl Slots, Bingo Blitz, Fliff, and Sportzino.

Does Quitting Gambling Make You Happy?

Quitting gambling may boost emotional well-being, though this depends on the individual. For those with gambling addiction, quitting is challenging and is best approached with support, possibly including professional help.

Adding to the difficulty is the common myth that you will quit before winning big.

Gambling withdrawal can be painful, so quitting abruptly without help is often discouraged.

If you have moderate gambling issues, quitting may quickly lift your mood, especially if you find other enjoyable activities. It’s never too early to take a break.

If you’re ready to quit or need help, call 1-800-GAMBLER now.