Gambling is a risky activity that involves placing something of value, such as money or property, on an uncertain outcome. It’s common to think of gambling as a form of entertainment where you can win big and retire on a tropical island if lady luck is on your side, but the reality is much more complicated than that. Gambling has the potential to cause serious problems, including family and personal conflicts, financial difficulties and debts, loss of a job or educational opportunities and even mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. People from certain groups, such as adolescents, veterans, aging adults and Latino and Asian communities, are at higher risk for developing problem gambling.

The main reason people gamble is because they enjoy the feeling of euphoria that occurs when you win money, which is linked to the brain’s reward system. Additionally, gambling often triggers a variety of other emotions, such as excitement, anticipation, boredom and stress. These feelings can make people want to gamble again and again, even when they’re losing.

Some people use gambling to cope with life’s stresses and problems, and the media promotes the idea that gambling is fun, sexy and glamorous. Others use it as a way to socialize with friends, or to escape from boredom or emotional distress. Regardless of the reasons for a person’s urge to gamble, it can be difficult to stop if you have a gambling disorder. The following are some tips for identifying problem gambling and making changes to improve your life:

Recognize warning signs of gambling problems:

Do you or someone you know spend more time gambling than planned? Do you lose track of how much time or money you’ve spent gambling? Do you have trouble sleeping because of thoughts about gambling? Do you feel a strong urge to gamble when stressed, upset or bored? Do you have to hide rent or food money from your loved one to cover gambling-related expenses?

Find other ways to relax and have fun:

Finding a new hobby or sport can help replace the pleasure you got from gambling with an equally stimulating activity. You can also try mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises and yoga, to refocus your attention on the present moment and break unhealthy thought patterns that lead to compulsive gambling.

A support group can be a great resource for those who struggle with problem gambling. Some support groups focus on peer-to-peer support and offer advice on coping with urges to gamble, while others offer financial assistance, education and legal help. A national hotline, operated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for those who are in need of help with gambling-related issues. Some states also have their own state-specific hotlines. Physical activity has also been shown to reduce the desire to gamble for those with a gambling disorder. In addition, it’s important to avoid triggers that encourage gambling behavior. This might include not going to casinos or other gambling venues, not carrying your credit card and limiting how much cash you bring with you.