Gambling is a social activity in which someone puts something of value on the outcome of an event that is mostly based on chance and with an intention to win money. It has been part of most societies since prerecorded history, and it is today a widely accepted form of entertainment, with an extensive range of betting options available. However, it is not without its costs to society, and gambling can have negative personal, family, and financial effects.

Most people gamble for a variety of reasons. Some do it for the socialization, while others do it to relieve boredom or stress. Those who have lower incomes may be more vulnerable to developing a problem. In addition, men and young people are more likely to become compulsive gamblers.

There is a growing role for the evaluation of patients’ gambling behaviors within a primary care setting.1 However, it is important to recognize that a gambling disorder is an addiction, similar to other addictive disorders, and that there are effective treatment options.

Many people develop a gambling addiction because their brains change the way they experience pleasure. When they gamble, they overstimulate the reward system and end up feeling less pleasure than they would otherwise. This changes their behavior, making them want to gamble more and more to feel the same pleasure. A person with a gambling addiction may be unable to control his or her behavior, even in the face of consequences.