Gambling is a popular pastime that involves risking money or something of value for the chance to win more. There are many different forms of gambling, from scratchcards and fruit machines to sports betting, lotteries and poker.

Gambling can be a socially acceptable and rewarding activity, but it can also have negative consequences for those who engage in it. It can lead to problems with money, relationships and other areas of your life.

Harms associated with gambling can be defined in a number of ways, but the most useful way is to identify them as an outcome. This approach is more suited to the context of public health and harm management than attempting to categorise the behaviour as problematic or non-problematic, the environment in which it occurs or risk factors.

There are three main types of harms experienced by gamblers: initial or exacerbated adverse effects; relationship distortions and negative consequences. Each harm is a form of negative impact that has a direct and measurable effect on the person who gambles, those affected by their gambling and the wider community.

Relationship distortions were common and could occur in a range of ways including the person who gambles becoming an authority figure, a parent role, or even a carer. They could create a conflict between the person who gambles and their significant other, causing a lack of trust. They can lead to the person who gambles feeling overwhelmed and stressed, and may be less able to take time out to relax.

Negative consequences were also common and included financial losses, reduced savings and other personal resources. These were primarily felt by those who gambled, but those who affected them would often experience the same impacts, even when they were not directly involved in the choice to gamble.

Adolescent problem gambling was the most common form of harmful gambling, occurring when children and adolescents engaged in gambling as part of their everyday lives. It can have a long term, negative impact on their social and emotional wellbeing, including poor self-esteem, anxiety and depression.

In addition, it can interfere with their education and work, making them more likely to drop out of school or find employment in a job that requires more hours. It can also lead to relationship problems with their family and friends.

As such, it can have a major impact on their future and can become a lifelong addiction, with many people struggling to get over it. It is important to seek help if you suspect a loved one has a gambling problem so that they can overcome it and start living a more fulfilling life.

Although it can be difficult to recognise that a loved one has a gambling problem, there are many resources available to support them through the process. Talking to your doctor is the best way to ensure that you and your loved one get the support needed to break free from the cycle of abuse and rebuild a healthy lifestyle.