Gambling is an activity where something of value (money, property or goods) is staked on an event involving randomness and chance. It can include games of chance such as blackjack, roulette and slot machines; gambling on sports events such as horse or greyhound races and football accumulators; and betting on business, insurance or stock markets.

The negative impacts of gambling can have a wide range of effects, from financial to psychological. Financial impacts can include increased gambling revenues, tourism and the impact on other industries and on infrastructure cost or value. Psychological impacts can include addiction, mental health problems and social distancing. Social impacts can be seen at a personal or interpersonal level, for example, the harms gamblers can cause to family members. Social impacts can also be seen at a community/society level and can involve costs such as those related to problem gambling and the long-term effects of gambling.

Psychiatric professionals recognize gambling as an addictive behavior and have developed criteria to identify those who may be addicted to it. These are similar to the criteria used for diagnosing other addictive behaviors such as alcohol and drugs.

For those who struggle with an addiction to gambling, there are many ways to get help and support. One option is to seek the help of a counselor, such as a therapist or addiction specialist. Alternatively, people can find support among their peers by joining a recovery program such as Gamblers Anonymous.