Gambling is the wagering of something of value on a random event in hopes of winning something else of value. It has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history and is incorporated into many local customs and rites of passage. In addition to money, gambling can also involve the risking of a person’s reputation or social status. A person can experience a range of emotions when they gamble, from anxiety to elation, depending on the outcome. Some people develop a gambling disorder that negatively impacts their personal and professional lives.

Some studies have examined the costs and benefits of gambling. Most research, however, has focused on the monetary aspects of gambling and has ignored the nonmonetary social impact. To assess the health impact of gambling, researchers have analyzed the medical literature using the MEDLINE database (1966 to present). Articles were included in the review if they met the following criteria: (1) they were published in peer-reviewed journals; (2) they were written in English; (3) they involved human subjects; and (4) they addressed the relationship between gambling and health or adversity.

Negative social impacts of gambling are difficult to measure because they are often invisible and not directly measurable. For example, when a gambler spends their family’s money on gambling, they may not be visible to their families but their negative emotional state is felt by those close to them. Other hidden impacts are the loss of social interaction that can occur at a casino, and the increase in stress levels and the use of unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., drinking, drugs).

There are some positive effects of gambling, as well. The ability to win money can boost self-esteem, and some games encourage teamwork and the development of skills such as pattern recognition, critical thinking and maths. In addition, many casinos and other gambling venues offer a social environment where friends can meet in an enjoyable setting.

The factors that contribute to the development of a gambling problem are complex and include the expectation of an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a poor understanding of random events, the use of escape coping and stressful life experiences. Regardless of the cause, most gambling problems develop among lower income groups who have more to lose and are more susceptible to the rewards associated with gambling. Young people are also particularly vulnerable. Understanding what causes gambling problems could lead to more effective interventions and help with recovery. In addition, more research is needed to examine the social impacts of gambling at a community level and the influence of social network dynamics on a gambler’s mental health. This information could provide clues as to the potential effectiveness of treatment programs and help in designing policies that promote healthy gambling.