February 18, 2025

Online Gambling is playing games of chance or skill for money, often via a computer, tablet, mobile phone, or television with an internet connection. It is a multi-billion dollar industry and many people enjoy gambling online. However, for some it can become a compulsive behaviour and result in significant emotional or financial harm. Online gambling can be difficult to stop because it is so convenient and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This can cause conflict with relationships, work, or school and can lead to isolation. It can also be a distraction from addressing underlying mental health issues.

To gamble online you need a device (computer, mobile phone, or tablet), a reliable internet connection, and money to deposit into your account. Once you’ve deposited funds, you can then choose which game or bet to play. When you win, the winnings will be added to your bankroll and when you lose, the funds are deducted from it. Many sites have self-exclusion settings, allowing players to lock themselves out of their accounts for months or even years.

Although gambling has traditionally been associated with mental health problems, recent research suggests that it may not be as closely linked to these as other activities such as alcohol or drug use. Rather, it appears that gambling may be used to mask underlying symptoms such as anxiety or depression. Identifying and treating these underlying symptoms can help reduce the desire to gamble.