Gambling is a form of risk-taking where someone places something of value, such as money or merchandise, on the outcome of an event that is not under their control. It is a worldwide pastime and contributes to the economy of many nations. Despite its economic importance, gambling is also harmful and addictive. It can lead to financial ruin and a life of misery, not only for gamblers but also for their families and loved ones.

Most adults and adolescents in the United States have placed some type of bet, with most doing so without problems. However, a small percentage of individuals develop gambling disorder, which is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition) as a persistent, recurrent pattern of gambling that causes significant distress or impairment. The causes of gambling disorder are complex and vary according to the individual, but they may include a lack of family support, negative life events, or genetic predispositions.

Several studies have focused on the negative impacts of gambling, especially financial harms to gamblers and their loved ones. These studies typically use health-related quality of life (HRQL) weights, also known as disability weights, to quantify the effects on a gambler’s well-being. This approach neglects the positive aspects of gambling, which have been found to be equally important for gamblers and their loved ones.

A few studies have examined the positive impacts of gambling on people and communities. These positive aspects of gambling are generally overlooked because they do not appear to directly impact a gambler’s financial health. However, these benefits do provide some context for the negative impacts of gambling on a person’s well-being.

If you know or suspect that a loved one has a gambling problem, it is important to understand their motivations. They might be addicted for coping reasons – to forget their worries, to feel more self-confident, or to distract themselves from painful feelings such as anxiety or depression. While these reasons do not excuse their addiction, they help you understand why your loved one continues to gamble, and how they might respond if you try to offer them help. Identifying the problem as a health issue rather than as a question about their lifestyle can reduce resistance to asking for help and prevent the progression of their gambling behavior. It can also help you get a better idea of the types of help that might be helpful to them. You should be aware that there is a strong risk of suicide in advanced cases of gambling addiction. This is a critical reason to seek professional treatment for your loved one as soon as possible. Symptoms of gambling addiction include: