Gambling is a common pastime that gives many people a nice rush when they win. It can be a good way to spend some free time and socialise with friends. However, it’s important to know when gambling is causing harm and how to avoid the negative effects.

Gambling impacts can be seen at the personal, interpersonal and community/society levels (Fig 1). The benefits and costs of gambling are often ignored, as they are not easy to measure. Most studies focus on the financial and labour impacts, but social impacts are also possible. These are harder to quantify and include social costs like increased debt, financial stress and family breakdowns and health problems resulting from gambling. These social costs can have long-term consequences for families and communities.

While gambling has a reputation as a negative activity, it can have positive impacts on the economy. It can stimulate tourism, increase the number of jobs in the gaming industry and contribute to economic growth. It can also help to reduce crime and other social ills by providing an alternative activity for societal idlers who would otherwise engage in illegal activities like burglary, robbery or drug peddling.

Gambling also has a social aspect as it helps to build relationships and can be a fun activity. For example, sports betting and playing casino games can be a great way to meet people who share the same interest in the same sport or game. The excitement of a bet and the thrill of winning can also boost happiness and improve brain health by stimulating new nerve connections in the brain.