Gambling involves placing a bet on a random event with the intent of winning something of value, such as money or goods. It may take many forms, from casino games and sports betting to lottery and scratch-off games. It is common for people to gamble for entertainment, but it can also lead to serious financial and personal problems.

When you bet on an event, whether it’s a football match or a scratchcard, your brain releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter that makes you excited and can make it hard to stop gambling. You may also have a genetic predisposition to seek out thrills and engage in risky behaviour. In addition, some cultures view gambling as a normal activity and this can make it harder to recognize when your behaviour is problematic.

If you’re concerned about your relationship with gambling, we recommend seeking counseling. Counseling can help you understand and think about your gambling habits, including how they affect your life. It can also provide tools and strategies to manage your addiction, as well as connect you with support resources. You can find a counselor or psychiatry provider who specializes in gambling through AcademicLiveCare, which is available to all CU Boulder students, staff and faculty. You can either schedule a virtual session or drop-in to a Let’s Talk session. If you have a severe problem with gambling, there are inpatient or residential treatment and rehab programs that can provide round-the-clock support to help you overcome your addiction.