Gambling is any game in which you risk something of value (money or other things) in the hope of winning a prize. This can include games that require skill, such as poker, and those that don’t, such as scratchcards or sports betting.
While many people gamble without any problem, some people become addicted to gambling. Their addiction can affect their physical and mental health, their relationships and their performance at work or study, and lead to serious debt and even homelessness. It can also cause family members to feel ashamed, angry and confused.
Most adults and adolescents have gambled at some point, but most do so without any problems. However, a small percentage of people develop a gambling disorder, which is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a pattern of compulsive gambling that causes substantial distress or impairment.
There are a number of factors that can lead to gambling disorder, including the expectation of an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity and a poor understanding of random events. Gambling disorder can also be triggered by stress or depression, and is often used as an escape from those experiences.
If you are concerned about someone close to you whose gambling is out of control, it’s important to reach out and strengthen your support network. Try to spend time with non-gambling friends, or join a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous. It can be helpful to find a sponsor, a former gambler with experience of staying free from gambling, who can offer guidance and support.