Gambling is a popular leisure time activity that has many benefits and costs. These impacts can be felt at the personal, interpersonal and societal/community levels. They include invisible individual and societal/community external costs that are general, costs associated with problem gambling and long term costs.

Gambling involves placing a bet on an event that has an uncertain outcome, for a stake of value. It can take many forms from lottery, casino games, sports betting and scratchcards to horse racing and other types of gaming. The positive aspects of gambling can include providing entertainment, socializing, improving mood and happiness, and raising money for charitable causes.

While most people can walk away from gambling, some can’t and become addicted to it. Scientists have found that certain brain changes happen when someone starts to gamble regularly and these contribute to addiction. These brain changes can include less activation of the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain that controls behaviour).

It’s important to remember that the gambling industry is a business and they need to make a profit to stay in business. This means they have to pay staff, rent for venues and purchase equipment. Having gambling in a community can also affect jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors.

Some people use gambling as a way to self-soothe unpleasant emotions, to relieve boredom or to unwind after a difficult day at work. However, there are healthier ways of doing this, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques.