Gambling involves risking something of value on an event that is primarily determined by chance with the hope of realizing a profit. It has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history, and it is often woven into local customs and rites of passage. Some people use skills to improve their chances of winning (e.g., a skilled poker player will have better odds than a novice).
But gambling is not just about luck; it’s also about skill, strategy, and money management. People who gamble responsibly can enjoy it for entertainment, but they should be aware of the risks and set limits on how much they can afford to lose.
For people who develop gambling disorders, it can cause serious problems in their lives, including health and mental distress, relationship difficulties, poor performance at work or school, financial troubles, and homelessness. It can also increase their suicide risk.
Understanding what causes people to gamble can help prevent and treat gambling disorders. For example, research shows that mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse can trigger or worsen gambling problems. And it’s important to address any underlying problems because, even if gambling is no longer a problem, the depression or anxiety that triggered it can remain. Also, people with underlying mood disorders can have an increased risk of suicide if they become compulsive gamblers. They are more likely to gamble in secret, lie about their gambling, and up their bets in a bid to win back their losses.