Gambling is an activity in which people wager something of value on a random event with the intent of winning something else of value. It is also a popular pastime and source of entertainment. It can be done with money, objects, services and even with collectible game pieces, such as marbles or pogs. Some forms of gambling are illegal in some countries. In the US, people can legally gamble at casinos, racetracks and on the internet.

Some studies have found that gambling can increase feelings of happiness and reduce stress. It can also help individuals learn about probability, statistics, and risk management. Additionally, it can be a source of income, especially for lower socioeconomic groups. In some cases, gambling can become addictive and lead to severe financial and social problems.

Many families struggle with dealing with a loved one who is struggling with gambling addiction. It is important to seek counseling if you think someone in your family has a problem. Counseling can teach you how to handle gambling-related issues and help your family heal.

While most studies have focused on the negative effects of gambling, a public health perspective is useful in understanding both the costs and benefits of this activity. These impacts can be structuralized using a framework of personal, interpersonal and societal/community levels. Individual level impacts include invisible, non-monetary costs that affect the gambler directly. Interpersonal level impacts affect other gamblers and may result in emotional stress or relationship problems. Society/community level external impacts are monetary and include general costs/benefits, costs related to problem gambling and long-term cost/benefits.