Gambling involves placing something of value on an event that is based, at least partly, on chance and where skill is not involved. Examples of gambling include card games, fruit machines, roulette and bingo. People also bet on events such as football matches and horse races through betting companies. These bets can involve a high amount of money.

Several factors can contribute to gambling addiction, including genetic predisposition and a tendency towards compulsive behaviour. A person’s psychological state can also impact on their ability to gamble responsibly. For example, if someone is under stress or depressed it may be more difficult to control their urges.

Problem gambling is associated with increased risk of mental health disorders and can lead to financial difficulties. It can also have a negative effect on relationships and work performance.

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of problem gambling so that you can get help if needed. You can seek support from friends and family, as well as a professional therapist or counselor. They can help you address issues resulting from your gambling addiction and provide guidance on how to cope with your cravings. They can also help you find healthy ways to relieve unpleasant feelings.

Research shows that some individuals are more prone to developing a gambling disorder than others. It has been found that gambling can overstimulate the brain’s reward system, causing a change in the way an individual feels pleasure. This can cause a person to need more and more gambling to feel the same level of pleasure.

Many people who are addicted to gambling start out with good intentions. They might have started gambling for fun or as a way to relax and socialize with friends. Over time, however, they develop a habit of gambling and begin to rely on it for self-soothing or for relief from boredom or depression. They may also become hooked on the thrill of winning and the feeling of euphoria that they experience when they win.

In order to stop gambling, it is a good idea to strengthen your support network and replace it with healthier activities. You can try exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, or joining a club or class that provides an alternative to gambling. You can also try a peer support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step recovery program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous.

For those who struggle with a severe gambling addiction, there are inpatient or residential treatment and rehab programs available. These programs are a great option for those who can’t easily quit gambling on their own and need round-the-clock care to avoid temptation. In addition, some patients may benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can teach them to resist irrational beliefs, such as the belief that a string of losses will lead to a big win. The DSM-IV, the American Psychiatric Association’s official guide to mental illness, has recognised pathological gambling as an addictive disorder since 1980.