Gambling is a form of risky play in which people stake something of value for the chance to win a prize. It can take many forms, from betting money on a game of chance to placing bets on sporting events. Regardless of the type of gambling, it can lead to financial losses and psychological distress. In addition, a recent study found that people with gambling problems have higher rates of suicide.

It is important to talk to your loved one about their gambling habits. The key is to approach the subject in a sensitive way and make sure they know that you are concerned. Try to avoid criticizing or lecturing them, which can cause them to shut down. Instead, focus on how their gambling is impacting others.

You should also be aware that it is common for people with gambling problems to go through cycles of awareness and denial. It may not be until they experience a crisis that they realise they have a problem and decide to change their behaviour.

Many people who gamble do so for a variety of reasons, such as socialising with friends, feeling an adrenaline rush when they win, or escaping from their worries or stresses. However, for some, it can become a serious addiction and lead to them going into debt or even doing illegal things in order to gamble.

In fact, research has shown that around 5% of adolescents and adults develop a gambling disorder, which is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a persistent and recurrent pattern of excessive or inappropriate gambling behavior that causes substantial distress and impairment. Those with a mental health problem such as anxiety or depression are also more at risk of developing a gambling disorder.

People who have a gambling disorder are more likely to commit crimes, such as stealing and fraud, in order to fund their gambling habit. They are also more likely to be homeless and suffer from relationship issues. They can be restless and irritable and find it difficult to concentrate on work or school. They may be more likely to drink and use drugs.

The most significant impact of gambling is at the personal/interpersonal level, including invisible costs and benefits that are non-monetary. These can then turn into visible costs and benefits at the society/community level, such as general costs of gambling, costs of problem gambling and long-term costs.

There are a number of things you can do to help your loved one get out of their gambling habit. These include: