Gambling involves risking something of value — money, property, reputation — on an event with uncertain outcomes, usually driven by chance and often involving skill. It can also include betting on sports events or other future occurrences based on an assessment of probability.
Gambling is a global industry that generates enormous revenue, but at the same time leads to significant harm for individuals and communities. It undermines social and economic security and leads to poverty through diverting household spending away from essential goods and services. It can contribute to relationship breakdown and family violence, as well as increase crime and erode civil institutions. It can cause addiction, mental illness and suicide. It can also be a significant source of income-generating crimes and facilitate illicit activities such as drug trafficking, terrorism and money laundering.
It is important for people to understand the risks of gambling, so they can make informed choices and seek help if they need it. This article explores what gambling is, the brain and its effects, and how to help a friend or relative overcome problem gambling. It also discusses some of the harms that can occur as a result of gambling, including conflicts in relationships, financial strain and feelings of anxiety or fear. It identifies some of the key groups of people who are at greater risk for developing problems, including adolescents, veterans, older adults and people from Latino or Asian backgrounds. It also examines how culture can impact attitudes about gambling and what constitutes a gambling problem.