I think there are a number of reasons that lead people to gambling. For me, it was a bit of boredom/issues in my relationship with my girlfriend. My brother died when he was in his late twenties (he was 18 months older than me). I’ve always done things to excess-whether that be drinking/recreational drugs. I rarely drink these days and I no longer take drugs. 10 months ago, I wasn’t a compulsive gambler and I won’t be 10 months from now.
Perhaps we gamble due to underlying issues, perhaps it’s just out of boredom or the mundane. Obviously there’s the aspect of financial gain/excitement of gambling. Personally, I didn’t particularly need the money I was trying to win. Ironically, my life savings are now gone and I could do with a big win, but I’ve realised (the hard way) that I won’t win long term and I’m happy with that. I’m devastated at the money I’ve lost. If I go to buy a new house or car and think that I’ve lost £70,000 or thereabouts, it’s enough to make you feel sick, but I feel happy at the moment-happy not gambling.