Gambling is a form of entertainment that involves placing something of value (money, goods or services) on an event with an uncertain outcome. It can be done by betting on sports events, casino games or scratchcards; playing video poker or slot machines; buying lottery tickets; or wagering money or other valuables online. In a broad sense, even buying life insurance can be considered gambling, as the gambler’s premiums are paid for an amount of time that one could have died within during that period if they hadn’t purchased the policy.
The positives and negatives of gambling can be seen on personal, interpersonal, and community/societal levels. These impacts affect the gambler and others close to him or her such as family members and work colleagues. These impacts also include the changes in gambling revenues, tourism and other economic activities. They can also include changes in the costs or value of goods and services and infrastructure, as well as health and well-being.
The risk of gambling-related harms is higher for vulnerable populations such as those with mental illness, lower socioeconomic status, and younger age groups. However, the uptake of treatment for gambling disorder is low and stigma prevents many from seeking help. Prevention is therefore essential to reduce gambling-related harms. Tools to support prevention include universal pre-commitment, self-exclusion and treatment. Among these, universal pre-commitment systems are the most effective and cost-effective. They require people to set binding limits on time and money spent on gambling and are designed to encourage responsible behaviour.