Gambling is when you place a bet on something that you don’t have much control over, like the outcome of a football match or a scratchcard. You bet money or something of value on the outcome, and if you are right you win money. If you are wrong, you lose the money you bet.

Having a gambling addiction can have many negative effects on your life, from financial ruin to damaged relationships. It can also cause serious health problems. Getting help for your gambling addiction is the first step to recovering and healing. You can find treatment at an inpatient facility, rehab, or a residential program. There are also community support groups for gamblers, including Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous.

There are no medications for gambling addiction, but several types of psychotherapy can help. During therapy, you will learn to identify unhealthy emotions and thoughts, change them, and improve your relationship with yourself. Your therapist may recommend family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or group therapy. Family therapy can be especially helpful if you have lost touch with loved ones as a result of your gambling addiction. It can also teach you new ways to handle stress and enjoy yourself without gambling. Cognitive behavioral therapy can teach you healthy coping skills, and psychodynamic therapy can help you understand how past experiences can influence your behavior. During group therapy, you can share your experience with others in the same situation and get motivational support.