Zona de Azar Brazil – Does Excessive Sports Betting Affect Mental Health and Well-being?

Brazil – November 8, 2024 www.zonadeazar.com. The sports world is constantly evolving, and currently, sports betting is in the spotlight. Some try to turn this habit into a profession, which can lead to issues, as excessive sports betting can affect mental health and well-being.

More than 5 million Brazilians are involved in betting. This unregulated growth means that around 20% of bettors develop addictions associated with high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Understanding the dangers of excessive sports betting

“The brain of a bettor operates on a reward basis. It releases dopamine with each win or the expectation of winning. This activates a reward system that needs more stimulation to achieve the initial pleasure, leading to addiction,” explained psychologist Gustavo Sampaio in an exclusive interview with Sport Life.

Gustavo added that the brain develops until the age of 22, which intensifies this type of addiction in young people. “However, studies show that adults bet more often since they have access to money and betting facilities,” he added.

Additionally, a study by the University of Cambridge in the UK found that compulsive bettors show activity in the part of the brain associated with impulse, which can lead to severe financial problems.

“There’s a distortion in perception. So, often, betting deceives people into thinking they can control it. For example: ‘I’m losing, but this time it will work. I’ll have a coffee, then the algorithm will change, and I’ll win.’ There’s also irritability,” Sampaio added.

What can be done to overcome this addiction?

“It’s essential to undergo therapy to gain self-awareness, although many people lack access to therapy. Talking with family members, explaining what’s happening to a trusted person or friend, blocking betting site accounts, and physical exercise can all help,” he advised.

The benefit of dopamine for those who do not live with addiction

“Usually, people without an addiction feel pleasure from watching TV, reading a book, exercising, or working. Their reward system is well-regulated, and they find joy in small things,” concluded Gustavo Sampaio.

Editor: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com