Gambling is a game or activity where participants wager something of value, including money or goods. It can also include a social element, such as betting on sports events or games. Some forms of gambling are legal and regulated by state or provincial governments. Others are illegal or unregulated, and can involve organized crime groups. In some cases, government revenues from gambling have contributed to economic development through investments in infrastructure improvements and support for local businesses.

There are many reasons why people gamble, including the opportunity to win money, socialise and escape worries or stress. But for some, gambling can become harmful and lead to debt. If you’re tempted to gamble, it’s important to seek help. There are many ways to get help, from seeking treatment to joining a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous.

A growing role for the evaluation of patients in primary care settings for addictions is being recognised, although there are some concerns that the focus may be too narrow and that other addictive behaviours are not being identified or treated adequately. Despite these concerns, there are many benefits of evaluating patients for gambling problems.

There are several strategies to help reduce your urges to gamble, such as reducing access to credit cards (or using only those that can’t be used on gambling sites), closing online betting accounts, letting someone else be in charge of your money or keeping only a small amount of cash on you at all times. It’s also important to strengthen your support network and find new recreational and social activities that don’t involve gambling.