Gambling can be a fun, exciting activity that offers a rush when luck falls in your favor. But it can also be a dangerous addiction. It’s important to know the warning signs to be able to take control of your gambling and avoid unhealthy behavior.

There are some people who are at a greater risk for developing a gambling problem than others. These groups include children, adolescents, women, alcoholics and those who have other addictions, as well as the elderly and Latino and Asian communities. Gambling is more likely to become a problem when people are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which makes them less able to make good decisions about their money and their betting habits.

Often, gamblers are secretive about their gambling and lie to friends and family about how much they spend, even though it’s causing them harm in other ways. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, often feeling angry or depressed when they lose or when something goes wrong in their life. In addition, they might be unable to quit gambling, and have to keep betting or increase their stakes in order to try to win back their losses.

The majority of people who develop a gambling disorder have other emotional and behavioral problems, such as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. They may also have problems with eating and sleeping. Problem gamblers can also be at risk for gambling-related health complications, such as heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.

Many factors can contribute to gambling addiction, including the environment in which a person plays, the type of game and the way it is played. The use of alcohol, drugs and caffeine increases the likelihood of gambling addiction, as does playing games while concentrating on other tasks. In addition, people who play with a friend who is a high roller or someone who has a lot of winnings can be more attracted to the thrill of gambling.

While some people do enjoy a little gambling as an occasional amusement or for the happy few seconds when they beat the house and win a few dollars, it can quickly turn into a dangerous addiction that is incredibly difficult to overcome. Unlike other addictive substances, there are few physical symptoms associated with gambling addiction, so it can be hard to recognize the early warning signs.

When you see these warning signs in yourself or a loved one, there are steps you can take to help them get on the path to recovery. For example, you can limit access to gambling apps on smartphones, avoid gambling websites and leave tips forums, and you can set betting and playing limits at online casinos. You can also speak to a mental health professional about local referral resources such as certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs. The first step is admitting that there’s a problem, which can be challenging but is essential to getting help and healing.