Gambling can be a fun and exciting way to spend money, but many people struggle with gambling addiction. It affects self-esteem, relationships and work performance and can cause harm to families and communities. It is also associated with an increased risk of substance abuse and can lead to mental illness such as depression. There are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing a gambling problem.

You can start by avoiding triggers, such as going to casinos or betting sites and limiting your time spent gambling. You can also practice mindful activities such as deep breathing and meditation to help you calm down. You can also rekindle old hobbies or try new ones to distract yourself from the urge to gamble.

It is important to only ever gamble with disposable income and not money that you need to save or pay bills. It is also essential to only gamble when you are in a good mood and never when you are depressed or upset. It is also a good idea to limit the number of hours you spend gambling and stop as soon as you reach your time limit, whether you are winning or losing. Another thing to remember is not to chase your losses, as the more you attempt to recoup lost funds the worse your loss will become.

While most people who gamble do not experience any negative consequences, some do. Gambling addiction is an addictive behavior that affects the brain’s reward system and leads to compulsive gambling. It is often accompanied by other addictive behaviors, such as drinking or drug use, and has been linked to depression and anxiety. Symptoms of gambling addiction can include irritability, restlessness and changes in appetite.

Some people are more susceptible to developing a gambling problem than others. Men are more likely to develop problems than women, and young people can also be at risk. It is thought that the development of a gambling problem is largely genetic and runs in families, but there are also environmental factors that can contribute to an individual’s vulnerability. Those who spend too much time playing video games or mobile apps that require micro-transactions can be at risk of becoming addicted as well.

The biggest step to overcoming a gambling addiction is realizing that you have one. This can be a difficult step for some, especially if they have incurred significant financial losses and strained or broken relationships. But it is important to understand that you are not alone and there are many other people who have successfully broken the habit and rebuilt their lives.

If you are struggling with a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Online therapy service BetterHelp can match you with a therapist who can help you overcome depression, anxiety, relationships and other issues that might be contributing to your gambling addiction. To get started, simply take our assessment and we’ll find you a therapist within 48 hours.