Online Gambling is gambling for money using a computer, mobile phone or tablet and internet connection. It includes casino games, sports betting, poker and even fantasy sports. Online Gambling is a huge industry, with the US market alone worth an estimated $9.5 billion per year. But it can also cause harm, including addiction.
Online gambling is easy to access and often has features that make it difficult for people to stop. These include accessibility, affordability, anonymity, convenience, escape immersion/dissociation and disinhibition. It is also difficult to avoid advertisements and the pressure to place bets, particularly on social media platforms.
Many gambling products are marketed to children and young people, despite their high risk of harm. This is largely due to commercialization and the rapid normalization of gambling. This is driven by advertising, sponsorship and colocation with popular sporting events and on social media. It is also supported by the availability of free play offers, which often have time limits and are targeted to keep people playing.
The impact of online gambling can be serious, and it is important to recognize the signs of problem gambling. If you think someone you know is at risk, talk to them in a non-judgemental way and offer help. You can also encourage them to seek professional help, if necessary. Remember that recovery from gambling addiction is possible, but it is ultimately up to the person affected to take action and get the help they need.
