Gambling is a worldwide activity, with over $10 trillion of money wagered each year (illegal gambling is much higher). Despite the stigma and puritanical influences, it’s often just a pleasure. And, like any pleasure, in moderation, it’s okay. But, for those who aren’t in recovery, it can create problems. Understanding the nature of gambling can help people who gamble avoid or mitigate harms.

Whether it’s slot machines, sports betting or poker, gambling involves mental engagement and strategy. It’s a skill that requires a mastery of probability and bluffing, as well as the ability to read other players and read the game. For some, this is a way to engage their brain and escape the humdrum of everyday life for just a little bit. For others, it’s a way to find hope and optimism in a world that can feel too fast, too judgmental or disconnected.

While the majority of people who gamble play for fun and within their own set limits, there are those whose actions can have negative impacts on themselves, other family members and on the community. While the benefits of gambling are well established, its costs and harms remain largely unknown. One approach to estimating them is through the concept of social impact. The model divides impacts into three categories: financial, labor and health, and well-being. This allows researchers to assess the effects of gambling on a personal, interpersonal, and societal level. Using this framework can also help policymakers compare the costs and benefits of different gambling policies.