Gambling is the act of risking something of value on an activity that is largely a matter of chance in the hope of winning a prize. It is a global activity and has been present in most societies since prerecorded history, often woven into local customs and rites of passage. It has strong advocates and powerful opponents, both of which tend to frame their arguments differently depending on disciplinary background, experience, and special interests.

While most people who gamble do not develop problems, a significant subset of people who start gambling may go on to have gambling disorder (previously known as compulsive gambling), an illness that affects their everyday life and relationships. The definition of gambling disorder is in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and it includes an irrepressible urge to gamble coupled with persistent losses and impaired functioning.

People who struggle with gambling may also experience difficulty with other aspects of their lives, including family relationships, work, and education. They might experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety. They might be impulsive or irritable, have trouble sleeping, and/or lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed. Problem gambling can lead to substance abuse and, ultimately, severe consequences such as legal issues, homelessness, and even suicide.

Whether you’re buying lottery tickets, placing a bet on a football game, or trying to assemble the best fantasy sports team, all of these are forms of gambling. While they each have a small chance of winning, most of them lose, and over time the average person spends more money on these activities than they win.

There are some things you can do to help reduce your chances of gambling. Make sure you set limits for yourself – start with how much you can comfortably afford to lose and stick to it. If you’re not ready to stop gambling altogether, limit your spending by taking away your credit cards, letting someone else manage the money, closing online betting accounts, and only keeping a fixed amount of cash on you.

It’s also important to get support. Talk to your friends and family about how you’re feeling, and find other ways to socialize that don’t involve gambling. Consider joining a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. You can also seek professional help, such as from a certified gambling counselor or an intensive treatment program.