Gambling is an activity in which you put money or other valuables at risk to try to win a prize, usually a larger sum of money. The term also refers to betting on events based on chance, such as sports games or the outcome of a lottery drawing. There are risks involved in gambling, including addiction, which may cause serious physical and mental health problems. It’s important to gamble responsibly and seek help if you have concerns.
Compulsive gambling can ruin family and work lives, affect relationships, lead to debt and homelessness and hurt your health. It can also be a sign of a mental health condition, such as depression or bipolar disorder. Treatment for these conditions can help you stop gambling and improve your life.
The first step to overcoming gambling addiction is understanding what it is. Then you can take steps to address the issue and change your behavior. A counselor or therapist can help you learn healthy coping skills and identify and challenge distorted thoughts that contribute to your problem. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is especially effective for gambling addiction and can teach you how to recognize and fight the urge to gamble.
You can also find support through the National Council on Problem Gambling, which offers a 24/7 phone hotline and resources for families. If someone you know has a gambling problem, you can help by encouraging them to get help and setting boundaries in how they manage their money.
