Gambling is the activity of risking something of value, usually money, on an event with a random outcome, such as a lottery, casino game or sports bet. It is not uncommon for people to have a gambling problem, which can have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.

Problem gambling affects people from all walks of life. It can happen to people from every age, background, religion and social class, but is most common in people with low incomes, young people and men. Problem gambling can cause emotional distress and even suicide in some cases. It can also result in financial difficulties for individuals and their families, affecting children as young as seven years old.

While it is not possible to prove that gambling causes mental health problems, some research suggests it may increase the risk of developing a mental illness in certain people. There is some evidence that gambling may trigger impulsivity in some individuals and cause changes in the way their brains work, particularly in areas associated with reward and decision-making. This could explain why it is harder for some individuals to recognise when they have a problem.

While many people enjoy gambling and do not develop a problem, it can become addictive for a small number of individuals. If you have concerns about your own or someone else’s gambling habits, talk to a doctor or psychologist. They can offer cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which will help you understand your beliefs about gambling and how this may influence your behaviours.