Gambling is the act of betting money or something else of value on an outcome based on chance, such as scratch cards, fruit machines, roulette, poker or sports betting. Most people gamble as an enjoyable social activity, but a small number of individuals develop a gambling problem which has serious personal, family, and financial consequences.

Compulsive gambling is a mental illness, and it can affect anyone from any walk of life. It is estimated that 1 in 10 compulsive gamblers have a family history of problem gambling, and it is more common for men to become affected than women. However, it can also be triggered by mood disorders like depression, and even by using alcohol or drugs. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of gambling problems, and seek help if you are worried about yourself or someone else.

It is possible to gamble without becoming addicted, but it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs and set limits on how much you spend. It’s a good idea to use cash rather than cards and always carry your allotted gambling money in an envelope and never spend more than that. Also, don’t be tempted to try and win back your losses, as you will only lose more in the long run.

When you go to a casino, set aside a fixed amount of time for playing. Then, when the time is up, stop. Try to focus on other things that you enjoy, such as eating a meal or chatting with friends. It’s a good idea to tip the dealer regularly, either by handing them a chip clearly labeled “This is for me” or by placing a bet for them. You should also tip the cocktail waitresses, as they’re often working for tips and not commission.

If you have a gambling problem, try to strengthen your support network and find activities that bring you joy. You could try joining a book club or sports team, volunteering for a charity, enrolling in a course, or finding an online group – such as Gamblers Anonymous – which is a peer support program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also get non-judgemental support from the GamCare helpline. You may also want to consider seeking treatment from a GP or psychiatrist, as they can help you address any underlying mood disorders that might be driving your addictive behaviour. This is particularly important if you’re at risk of losing your home or having legal issues because of your gambling. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has information on how to do this. You can also download their free app, ‘My Gambling Problem’, which provides an anonymous self-assessment and links to support. This is available on Apple and Android devices. It is easy to use and can be accessed anywhere, at any time.