Online Gambling, which includes betting on sports events and casino games and playing poker and fantasy sports, is an estimated $9.5 billion a year business. For many, it can be fun and exciting. But gambling can also cause harm, including addiction. The American Psychiatric Association lists gambling disorder among its behavioral health disorders, alongside alcohol and drug addiction.

While many people enjoy the thrill of a quick bet, others can find themselves chasing losses and gambling beyond their means. This can lead to financial issues, relationship problems and other legal consequences such as theft or fraud. Additionally, gambling can cause stress and even depression and anxiety. In severe cases, people can even become suicidal.

There are a variety of treatment options for gambling addiction, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. With CBT, individuals work with a therapist to identify harmful thoughts like the belief that they are “due to win” after a streak of losses, and learn tools to reframe them. In motivational interviewing, individuals work with a counselor to examine their ambivalence about changing their habits and develop strategies to enhance their motivation. In addition, family support can help individuals stay motivated and achieve recovery.