The Dangers and Risks of Online Gambling

Online Gambling is the activity of playing casino games, sports betting, lotteries and other forms of gambling through the internet. It is an $9.5 billion a year industry, and millions of people are involved in it. However, it can also be addictive and lead to harm, just like alcohol and other drugs. It is important to understand the dangers and risks associated with Online Gambling, so that you can stay safe while gambling.

The popularity of online gambling is driven by its accessibility and ease of use. It is easy to play from a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer, with no need for travel or expensive machines. This means that people can gamble from anywhere – at home, while on holiday, at work or even while commuting.

This ease of access increases the risk of uptake for vulnerable groups. People experiencing social stressors such as job loss, relationship problems or a death in the family may be at particular risk. Heavy promotion of gambling products online and through sport also drives normalization and increases the potential for harm.

Pathological gambling develops when individuals become preoccupied with gambling and continue to gamble despite negative consequences. This can include financial losses and accumulating debt, as well as health deterioration from poor sleep and a sedentary lifestyle. The American Psychiatric Association now includes gambling disorder in its list of mental health disorders. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.