Online Gambling has seen a strong growth in recent decades due to its intrinsic characteristics that make it particularly attractive to players (accessibility, anonymity, variety of games). However, it is important to monitor the evolution of this phenomenon since it can have significant negative consequences for health. To do so, the current state of knowledge on risk and protective factors for gambling is analysed in this article. In particular, comparisons between online and offline gamblers and between online nonproblematic and problematic gamblers are examined.

Psychological Benefits

As with any other leisure activity, playing casino games has numerous psychological benefits. These include:

1. Escapism

Gambling offers individuals a form of escapism that allows them to take their mind off daily stressors. In addition, when an individual wins a game, the brain releases feel-good hormones that boost confidence and positivity. This euphoria can even last after the game is over.

2. Socialization

Unlike a physical casino, most online casinos have no time limits and can be played at any time of the day or night. This can lead to greater opportunities for interaction between players, which helps relieve stress and improve cognitive function.

3. Health and Mental Health Comorbidities

The co-existence of physical and mental health comorbidities increases the likelihood of developing disordered gambling. A 2015 article by Sally Gainsbury found that people who gamble online tend to have higher rates of psychiatric and substance abuse disorders than those who do not gamble. In addition, a 2010 study by McCormack et al. showed that the more frequent a person is engaged in online gambling, the more likely they are to be diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder.