Gambling is a type of recreational activity that involves wagering something of value, such as money or merchandise, upon an event of uncertain outcome. The term is also used to refer to games of chance or skill in which the participants attempt to gain an advantage over the house, such as poker, blackjack, and roulette. It does not include bona fide business transactions valid under law (such as contracts of indemnity or guaranty and life, health or accident insurance).

Gambling may be triggered by the release of hormones associated with reward and motivation in the brain. It can also be a way for people to change their moods or escape from stressful situations. Some people find gambling a fun and exciting pastime, while others have lost significant amounts of money or strained relationships as a result of their addiction to the activity.

The first step in treating a problem with gambling is admitting that there is a problem. This is often the hardest step for someone with an addiction, especially if they have already lost a lot of money and had their relationships strained or broken by their gambling. Once a person has admitted that they have a problem, they can seek help from professionals who specialize in gambling addiction. This can involve individual, family and marriage counseling, as well as financial, career, and credit counseling. The therapists can help them create new behaviors, set healthy boundaries in managing their money, and learn how to recognize triggers that lead to gambling.