Online Gambling and Mental Health Problems

Online Gambling is a form of digital gambling, which involves placing real money wagers on games of chance and skill via the internet. It can include casino games, sports betting, fantasy sports, poker, keno and lottery games. It is a global industry with an estimated annual revenue of over $9.5 billion. It has been linked to various mental health problems including addiction, particularly in young people. It can also result in serious financial harm, especially when individuals rely on illegal activities to fund their gambling habits.

People who gamble often do so to find relief from the stress and anxiety of daily life. It is thought that the brain releases feel-good hormones such as endorphins and dopamine in response to this type of activity. This can be a good thing, but if it becomes addictive it can lead to other problems such as depression, poor sleep and high blood pressure.

People with a gambling problem should seek professional help. This can be through therapy, support groups or medication. Behavioral therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be extremely effective, as it focuses on changing harmful patterns of behavior. Medications can also be used to treat underlying issues such as anxiety or depression, which can sometimes fuel the urge to gamble. Those who are prone to gambling problems should consider self-exclusion options offered by some online casinos, which can block their access for a set period of time. This can help them regain control of their finances and focus on other aspects of their lives.