Gambling involves wagering something of value on a random event with the intent of winning something else of value (e.g., money), whereas skill can improve the odds of winning but does not guarantee success. For example, a person who has knowledge of playing strategies can improve their chances of winning at poker; and a horse racing fan with expert handicapping skills can make better predictions about the probable outcomes of a race.

In recent years, the way people think about gambling and its adverse consequences has undergone profound change. For much of history, individuals who experienced problems with gambling were considered to have gambled too much and were often called “gamblers with a problem.” However, the current understanding is that they suffer from psychological disorders similar to those of alcoholics and other addicts. This has been reflected in, and stimulated by, the changes in nomenclature regarding pathological gambling in various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association (DSM).

Although some people may not experience the symptoms of problem gambling, the condition can cause significant damage to a person’s life. For example, it is common for compulsive gamblers to jeopardize their employment, relationships and financial security, as well as their physical health and emotional wellbeing. People who are addicted to gambling often lie, steal or borrow to finance their habit, and in severe cases can even commit crimes such as forgery or embezzlement. Those with a severe gambling problem are also at risk of suicide.

There are a number of ways to treat gambling addiction, including medication, therapy and self-help. Therapy aims to address the underlying issues that drive a person to gamble. In many cases, the cause is an underlying mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, which can be both triggers of and exacerbated by gambling behavior. Other causes of a gambling disorder may include stress, family conflict, or past trauma.

A key to successfully treating a gambling addiction is finding healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings and entertain oneself. Some healthy alternative activities to gambling include exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, participating in hobbies, and practicing relaxation techniques. In addition to individual therapy, support groups for gamblers are available. The 12-step Gamblers Anonymous program, which is based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, can be a powerful tool in the recovery process. Other options for peer support include joining a book club or sports team, enrolling in an educational class, and volunteering for a worthy cause. Family therapy and marriage, career and credit counseling can also be helpful in resolving the issues that have caused a person to gamble excessively. Inpatient and residential treatment programs are available for those whose gambling is severely affecting their lives. These facilities provide round-the-clock care and offer structured programs to help a person break their gambling habits. These facilities can also serve as a safe space to discuss difficult emotions such as shame, guilt and anxiety without the pressure of being in public.