Gambling is an activity that involves wagering something of value on a random event, such as a football match or scratchcard, with the aim of winning money. It can be done alone, in groups or on the internet and requires three things: consideration, risk, and a prize.

While gambling can provide a variety of benefits, such as socializing and mental developments, it can also be harmful to the user, and some people develop a problem with it that results in serious psychological and health problems. It is also a large international commercial industry that contributes to the economy of many countries, including the US.

There are a number of ways to get help for a gambling addiction, such as inpatient or residential treatment programs and peer support groups. In addition, people with an addiction can also strengthen their support network by finding other activities that don’t involve gambling, such as joining a sports team or book club or volunteering for a good cause. They can also try to find work in a non-gambling business, or find new friends outside their normal circle of gamblers.

Most studies have focused on negative effects, but there is a need to look at both costs and benefits of gambling. Negative impacts can occur on a personal level, affect the gambler’s family and other people, and last for a long time. Methodological challenges include determining how to measure these impacts and assessing whether they are positive or negative. A useful approach may be to use health-related quality of life weights, which are used in assessing the impact of drugs, to identify the intangible social costs and benefits of gambling.