Gambling involves betting something of value on a random event that has the potential to produce a prize. In some cases, gambling may be done for entertainment purposes, while in others it is a serious problem that can have many negative consequences for those struggling with it. Symptoms of gambling disorder can include spending more money than you have, lying to others about how much you gamble and continuing to gamble even when it affects your work, education or relationships.

If you think you might have a gambling problem, there are many tools and organisations that can help you get back in control. Some of these are free, some are not, and some can offer support in different languages.

Some people develop a gambling problem because of a mental health condition, such as depression. Having a mental health condition can make you more at risk of harmful gambling because it can be used as an escape or way to avoid painful emotions like anger and sadness. It can also cause a person to rely on gambling for pleasure, rather than healthier activities like spending time with loved ones and eating good food, which actually have a more beneficial effect on the brain.

Gambling stimulates the reward centre of the brain, making it feel like a source of pleasure and relief from stress and boredom. However, it’s important to remember that the rewards from gambling are short-lived and don’t last. The best way to manage your gambling behaviour is to identify the triggers that encourage your gambling and try to avoid them. For example, if you tend to gamble when you’re bored or on the way to or from work, consider taking an alternative route, changing the TV channel or turning off your internet connection.

Another trigger that can encourage harmful gambling is money problems. If you have debt, speak to StepChange for free, confidential advice. It’s also worth avoiding situations that could lead you to gamble, for example, visiting casinos and bookmakers, keeping credit cards and non-essential cash at home, or reviewing your bank statements. It’s also important to challenge negative thinking habits such as the illusion of control, irrational beliefs and the gambler’s fallacy.

People who have a gambling problem can suffer from a range of physical and psychological problems. These can include financial loss and distress, which often causes feelings of shame and guilt. It can also impact sleep and appetite. It can also contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, leading to weight gain and poor cardiovascular health. Pathological gambling can also cause stress and anxiety, which can affect the immune system and lead to disorders like gastrointestinal issues and high blood pressure.

It’s important to recognise that helping someone with a gambling problem can be tiring and that you need to look after your own health. This may mean getting therapy for yourself, joining a support group or learning self-help tips. You can also offer emotional support by offering to listen and by acknowledging their efforts and progress.