Gambling involves betting money or something else of value, with conscious risk and the hope of gain. It can affect anyone, regardless of their economic circumstances or culture. Some people, particularly young men, are more at risk. They may start gambling as teenagers or early adults and continue throughout their adult life. Others who are at high risk are those with family history of gambling problems and those who have a genetic predisposition to thrill-seeking behaviours or impulsivity. Age, gender and social networks also affect whether or not someone develops a gambling problem.

Even though most people gamble without a problem, some develop a gambling disorder. This is a recognised mental health diagnosis (as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). Problem gambling can cause serious distress and impairment in every area of a person’s life.

In some cases, it can affect a person’s relationships, job and education. It can also lead to financial difficulties and addiction. A person who has a gambling disorder often lies to conceal their involvement or tries to use other sources of money to relieve financial pressure caused by gambling. They may also feel distressed, guilty or anxious when they lose money and often return to gambling the following day to try to get back their losses.

There are many things you can do to help a friend or family member overcome their urge to gamble. Support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous, can be an important source of peer support. You can also make it harder for them to gamble by closing their online accounts, taking over their finances and finding other ways to fill their time, such as joining a sports team or book club, volunteering, exercising or getting involved in their community.