Gambling is when people stake something of value – such as money, goods or services – on the outcome of a game involving chance. It can be done in many places, such as casinos, sports events, and online. When someone gambles, they hope that the outcome will be better than the amount they staked. If they are successful, they win the prize money. If they are unsuccessful, they lose the amount they staked. Gambling can cause serious problems, such as loss of income and damage to relationships.

While most people have placed some form of bet or gambled, not everyone develops a problem. A subset of people who gamble go on to become pathological gamblers, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition). They may continue gambling even after it causes significant distress or impairment. They may also lie to others about their gambling, believing that other people will not understand, or that they will surprise them with a big win.

The most important step to dealing with gambling issues is acknowledging that you have a problem. This can be very difficult, especially if you have lost a lot of money or damaged your relationships. But it is essential to overcome this hurdle if you want to change your harmful gambling habits and recover from the consequences.

Some people may feel compelled to gamble secretly or to lie about their gambling activities. This is often a sign of underlying mood disorders like depression or anxiety, which can trigger or worsen compulsive gambling. It is important to seek treatment if you have these conditions, as well as work on your self-esteem and find ways to cope with stress and anxiety without using drugs or alcohol.

People who have a higher risk of developing a gambling problem include those who have other addictions or mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. They are also more likely to be male and younger, and to start gambling in childhood or the teenage years. Vulnerability is also greater for those with low incomes who have more to lose than they can afford to lose, and for those with a family history of gambling disorder or mood disorders.

Research has shown that the most common symptoms of gambling disorder are a desire to win more money, a loss of control over gambling behavior, and increased frequency of gambling. Other signs include hiding gambling activity from friends or family members, lying about how much you gamble, and spending more than you can afford to pay back. Gambling can damage relationships, careers and physical or mental health, so if you notice these warning signs in yourself or a loved one, it is important to get help as soon as possible. A therapist can teach you how to break unhealthy gambling habits and rebuild your life. BetterHelp’s therapists are licensed, accredited and experienced in working with clients who struggle with gambling disorders. Start by taking our assessment and we will match you with a therapist who can help you.