Gambling is betting or staking something of value on the outcome of a game, contest or uncertain event with awareness of the risk and in the hope of gain. It ranges from the betting of small sums by people who have little in the hope of winning a prize (a lottery ticket) to the sophisticated casino gambling practised by the wealthy. While many gamblers enjoy the entertainment and financial benefits of gambling, the behaviour can cause harm to individuals and society.

The negative impacts of gambling include psychological and physical problems for the gamblers themselves as well as the impact on their family members, friends, communities and societies. These impacts can be categorized into three classes: financial, labor and health and well-being. The former category includes financial impacts such as changes in the gambler’s financial status; the latter encompasses effects on the workforce, such as changes in work performance, absenteeism and job loss. The third category of impacts comprises social costs, such as escalating debt and a rise in the number of people experiencing homelessness.

Gambling is often portrayed in the media as fun, glamorous and exciting, leading some to use it to socialize with friends. However, there are healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings such as boredom and loneliness, including exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends or taking up a new hobby. Moreover, learning to play a gambling game can help improve mental development and skills by challenging the brain and encouraging the player to study patterns and numbers.