Gambling involves risking money or other items of value on the outcome of a game that includes some element of randomness or chance. It can include playing card games, fruit machines and slot machines; putting money on football accumulators or other sporting events; lottery-type wagering; bingo; speculating on business, insurance or stock market outcomes; and more. Gambling can lead to a wide variety of problems, including addiction and legal trouble. It can also damage relationships, hurt performance at work or school, and cause debt and even homelessness.

For some people, gambling can be a fun and harmless way to pass the time. But for many, it can be a serious problem. Problem gambling can impact your health, family and relationships, harm your job or career, lead to substance abuse, cause financial hardship, and even lead to suicide.

It is difficult to know when gambling becomes a problem, and it may not be obvious to those around you. However, there are warning signs that you should look out for. These include:

Problem gambling is linked to impulsivity, which can make it difficult for people to control their impulses and resist temptation. Research shows that a person’s genetic makeup can contribute to their susceptibility to gambling. Specifically, some people have an underactive brain reward system, which can lead to difficulty processing rewards and controlling their emotions. In addition, some people have a history of traumatic or stressful events in their lives that can contribute to their gambling.

There are several ways to treat a gambling addiction. You can seek help from a therapist or support group, take medication to reduce your cravings, or change your environment by removing all forms of gambling from it. You can also try to find healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques.

If you’re struggling with gambling, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are inpatient or residential treatment and rehab programs that can help you overcome your addiction. These are often aimed at those with severe gambling problems who can’t get help on their own and need round-the-clock care. You can also find community-based support groups for recovering gamblers, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is a 12-step recovery program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. This program helps you find a sponsor, who is a former compulsive gambler, and offers support as you work through the steps of recovery. Lastly, you can also strengthen your support network by reaching out to friends and family who don’t gamble. You can also join a sports team or book club, start volunteering for a worthy cause, or enroll in an educational class to meet new people. By strengthening your support network, you’ll be better equipped to resist gambling urges and avoid relapse.