Gambling is a popular activity that involves taking risks for the chance of winning money or other prizes. Some people find gambling enjoyable, while others struggle with the activity. Having an addiction to gambling can have devastating consequences, both financially and for relationships. If you think you might have a problem, there are ways to seek help and support.

It can be hard to recognise a gambling addiction, especially when it comes to online gambling. Some people hide their gambling activities from friends and family, and are secretive about how much they gamble. They may also lie about their spending or hiding evidence of gambling activity to avoid confronting it.

People with an addiction to gambling can develop a wide range of problems, including anxiety, depression and substance use disorders. Getting treatment for these issues can help reduce the severity of the gambling disorder and improve their overall well-being.

It’s important to realise that the amount of money lost or won does not determine whether gambling becomes problematic. The key sign is if the behavior affects other areas of life, such as relationships and work. It’s also important to learn healthier ways to self-soothe unpleasant emotions and relieve boredom, such as exercising, socializing with friends who don’t gamble and practicing relaxation techniques. This will help prevent gambling from becoming a substitute way to deal with stress and loneliness.