Gambling involves risking something of value, such as money or possessions, on an activity that is primarily determined by chance. It has been a part of nearly all human societies since prerecorded history and is often incorporated into local customs and rites of passage. Most people who gamble do so responsibly, and many of them enjoy the excitement and sense of anticipation that accompany gambling. However, a small percentage of individuals who gamble develop an addiction to gambling that may result in significant distress or impairment. An individual who develops an addiction to gambling is considered a pathological gambler, and his or her behavior has been captured in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association.

The global prevalence of gambling has grown rapidly in recent decades. Casinos and other forms of legal gambling can be found in most countries, and sports betting is popular worldwide. Organized lotteries are the largest form of gambling and can be found in most European countries, several South American countries, Australia, and some African and Asian countries. In addition to casinos and lotteries, online gaming has become a popular source of gambling. People can now place bets on almost any sporting event or outcome from the comfort of their own home.

Problem gambling is associated with a variety of negative psychological symptoms, including feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression, and denial. It can also lead to financial difficulties, which can include owing money to family members or creditors. In some cases, a person with a gambling problem has committed illegal acts such as forgery, embezzlement, or theft in order to fund his or her gambling habit. Some have even jeopardized relationships, employment, or educational opportunities in pursuit of gambling.

In some cases, a person can develop an addiction to gambling despite having no personal or family history of mental illness or a previous history of gambling problems. In addition, there is a growing recognition that the development of gambling disorders is influenced by changes in the brain’s chemistry and structure, which can be triggered by repeated exposure to gambling activities.

The most important step in overcoming an addiction to gambling is to seek help from a qualified psychiatrist. It is also helpful to strengthen support networks, and involve loved ones in setting boundaries about spending money on gambling. It is also recommended to remove credit cards from the household, make it clear that gambling is not an acceptable activity for children, and limit access to internet and television gambling sites. Lastly, it is helpful to join a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step model based on Alcoholics Anonymous. In time, it is possible to rebalance brain chemistry so that gambling no longer provides the same high that it once did. After this is accomplished, life can begin to feel rewarding again, and pleasures from other sources can once again be enjoyed.