Gambling is an activity in which people risk money or valuables by making predictions about events that involve chance and are not under the control of the players. A prize is offered for the winning prediction, but if the player loses, he or she forfeits all staked capital. It is an activity that has a long history, and the risks and rewards vary considerably. Examples of gambling include playing card games (poker, blackjack and bridge) with friends in private settings; betting on horse races or football accumulators with friends; and using lottery tickets, instant scratchcards or casino machines. Gambling can also involve speculating about business, insurance and stock markets.

A number of psychological and environmental factors are associated with the development of gambling problems. Although many people who gamble have no problem, a small percentage develop serious problems that affect their family, social life, work and health. Gambling can be dangerous because it may lead to debt, bankruptcy and even suicide. It can harm one’s self-esteem, cause depression or anxiety and have a negative impact on relationships. It can also be addictive and can become a substitute for other activities, such as drinking and taking drugs.

The prevalence of gambling is growing. People start gambling at a much younger age now than in the past. Approximately half of all adults have gambled at some time in their lives. Those in their early 20s are the fastest-growing group of gamblers and they are most likely to have a problem.

Many people who have a problem with gambling are able to stop the behavior with the help of therapy, counseling and other treatment options. However, there are some who cannot overcome their addictions and may require residential or inpatient treatment programs. Such treatment can be costly, but it is effective for those who need it.

Gambling addiction can be difficult to recognize in yourself or in someone close to you. Some signs of gambling addiction include:

A desire to gamble more often than usual. Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop gambling. Continuing to gamble even after losing money in the hope of getting it back (chasing losses). Keeping secretive about their gambling habits or lying about their involvement. Jeopardizing or sacrificing significant relationships, employment, education or career opportunities to gamble.

Over the years, our understanding of gambling problems has changed dramatically. For example, in the past, we viewed pathological gambling as a type of substance abuse, but today we understand it as a psychological disorder that can have serious consequences for the individual and their families. This change in our understanding of the nature of gambling problems is reflected in, or at least stimulated by, the evolution of the description of the disorder in the various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association. Ultimately, a better understanding of the underlying causes of gambling problems will result in improved strategies for prevention and treatment.