Gambling involves betting money or other valuables on an event whose outcome is determined at least partly by chance. This may be the result of the roll of a dice, the spin of a roulette wheel or the outcome of a horse race. The element of chance makes gambling a risky activity and has historically given it a bad reputation.

Although most people who gamble do so without issue, a significant subset develops a gambling disorder. This is a mental health condition that can cause serious problems with family, work and finances. In addition, it increases the risk of suicide and can lead to legal issues and homelessness.

Many people who struggle with gambling disorder feel ashamed of their addiction, so they try to hide their behavior from family and friends. They might lie about their gambling or use money from other sources to cover up their losses. Others are unable to stop gambling even when they are in financial trouble. In some cases, the behavior leads to family breakdown and bankruptcy.

There are a number of ways to help someone struggling with gambling disorders. It is important to talk to them and set boundaries. You can also seek professional help. Therapists specialize in treating gambling disorder and can help you overcome your addiction. There are also many community resources that can provide support and counseling.

The first step to recovering from gambling disorder is admitting you have a problem. It takes tremendous strength and courage, especially if you have lost a lot of money and have strained or broken relationships because of gambling. You can find support by joining a support group, seeking individual therapy or working with an online therapist service like BetterHelp. BetterHelp matches you with licensed therapists who can help you with gambling addiction and other mental health issues.

While most people associate gambling with casinos, lottery games and sports betting, the definition of gambling is much broader. Almost anything that involves an exchange of money or goods for an uncertain outcome can be considered gambling, including video game loot boxes and real-world poker tournaments.

Regardless of the type of gambling, there are some key factors that can increase your risk of developing a gambling disorder. Specifically, vulnerable groups include women, people with low incomes and young people. The latter is particularly concerning because young brains are not yet fully developed and are more susceptible to bad habits.

The best way to help someone struggling with gambling is by putting healthy practices into place. You can encourage them to spend less time gambling and instead take a walk, read a book or call a friend. You can also make sure they are getting enough sleep and avoiding high-stress situations. Finally, you can make sure they have an emergency fund and are not spending more than they have. You can do this by setting limits on their access to credit cards and other accounts, having them put someone else in charge of their money, reviewing their bank and credit card statements regularly and keeping only a small amount of cash on hand.