Gambling is the betting of something of value (or the staking of money or other valuable objects) on an event whose outcome is determined at least in part by chance. It includes games of chance, such as keno or roulette, as well as other activities, such as office pools and buying lottery tickets. It also includes the use of collectable items that have a monetary value, such as marbles or trading cards in games such as Magic: The Gathering. Gambling is a popular pastime, with more than four out of five Americans saying they have gambled in their lives.

Some people are addicted to gambling, and this can cause severe problems for them and their family. It can lead to financial difficulty, debt, legal issues, depression, and anxiety.

If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, there is help available. A therapist can teach you skills to cope with your gambling addiction and make the necessary changes in your life. They can also support you through any legal issues that may arise. The first step is admitting that you have a problem. This can be a difficult step, especially if you have already lost money or strained or broken relationships due to gambling.

There are many reasons why people start gambling, and they vary from person to person. Some gamble for social reasons, such as with friends or at parties, and others do it to win money. They may imagine what they would do with the money if they won, or they might think it will make them happier than they are now. They might also gamble as a distraction or way to deal with emotions, such as anger or depression.

Some of the symptoms of gambling disorder include: lying to family members, therapists, or employers about the extent of their involvement in gambling; using money intended for other purposes, such as paying bills, to finance gambling; making excuses to avoid attending work or social events because of gambling; spending more than they can afford and becoming financially unstable; losing a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling; or stealing or committing other illegal acts to fund gambling (the APA describes this as “chasing one’s losses”).

It is possible to break the habit of gambling, but it takes tremendous strength and courage. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek help as soon as possible. You can get support from your GP or local alcohol and drug misuse service, from StepChange for free debt advice, or by calling 999 or going to A&E if you have thoughts of suicide. It is also worth getting some therapy to tackle any underlying issues that might be contributing to the problem. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help you challenge irrational beliefs, such as believing that certain rituals will bring you luck or that you’ll win back any losses by gambling more. These are just a few examples of the many therapies that can be useful for people with a gambling disorder.