Gambling involves risking something of value (usually money) on an event whose outcome is largely dependent on chance or luck, rather than skill. It includes betting on sporting events such as football or horse racing, playing casino games like slot machines and roulette, buying lottery tickets or online poker, and even playing video games with gambling elements. While it can be fun for some people, for others it can be addictive and cause serious problems in their lives including harming relationships, affecting work or study performance, leading to debt and potentially homelessness.

While there are many reasons why someone might gamble, research shows that the most common causes of problem gambling are poor finances, family and peer pressures, and a lack of coping skills. In addition, some people are more vulnerable to developing a gambling disorder, especially young people, men and those with low incomes. These people are also more likely to be exposed to the newest forms of gambling, such as sports betting and video game-based gambling.

If you or someone you know has a gambling addiction, there are a range of treatment options. In general, psychotherapy and/or medications can help with the underlying issues that are contributing to gambling behavior. This may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps change negative thoughts and behaviors, or psychodynamic therapy, which focuses on unconscious processes and the way they influence our actions. Other options can include family or group therapy, and support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.

Getting professional help is the best way to address a gambling disorder. A therapist can help you identify your specific triggers and develop strategies to overcome them. Medications can help reduce cravings, and may be combined with CBT to treat underlying mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.

A therapist can also help you set healthy boundaries around gambling, for example by helping you to manage your bank account and credit cards. They can also provide advice on how to avoid gambling websites and apps. They can also teach you coping mechanisms to deal with urges, such as distracting yourself or going for a walk.

While it can be hard to recognize a gambling problem in others, it is important to recognise the symptoms of the condition. It is often difficult to admit that you or a loved one has a gambling addiction, and it can be tempting to hide gambling activity from family and friends or lie about it. Some people who have a gambling problem are also depressed, which can make them even more prone to hiding their gambling activities. They may also try to justify their gambling by arguing that they’re just “playing for fun” or it’s not that bad. If you or a loved one has a problem with gambling, seek professional help as soon as possible. You can find help by calling a Gamblers Anonymous helpline or visiting a gambling website that offers support, assistance and counselling. You can also get help by attending group or individual therapy, such as CBT, psychodynamic therapy, or psychotherapy based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.