Gambling is an activity in which people place wagers (cash or items of value) on the outcome of a game or event involving chance. Some types of gambling are organized by governments and include lotteries and horse racing, while others are conducted at commercial establishments such as casinos. In addition to generating tax revenues, gambling can also stimulate local economies through investments in infrastructure and tourism.
Most individuals who gamble do so responsibly and do not suffer negative personal, social or financial consequences. A small percentage, however, develop a problem with gambling, defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as persistent and recurrent gambling behavior that causes distress or impairment. This subset is most often composed of men and young adults. The vulnerability to develop a gambling disorder is higher in low-income groups, and may be exacerbated by the perception that a large win will solve all problems.
Although most people are not able to stop gambling, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of becoming addicted. Among the most important is to strengthen one’s support network by finding new ways to socialize. To do this, it may be helpful to try new activities such as joining a club, taking an education class or volunteering for a cause. In addition, one can join a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, a program based on the 12-step model used by Alcoholics Anonymous.