Online Gambling is a form of gambling whereby individuals play games of chance and skill for money on platforms like laptops, tablets and smartphones. Online gambling has become a huge industry worldwide and is available in most countries that have legalized it. It is also popular among young people who may have been introduced to gambling behaviours through features in video games such as loot boxes and skin betting.

Online gambling is a very addictive activity and can result in numerous problems such as disrupted relationships, financial instability and feelings of withdrawal when attempting to quit. Individuals may neglect personal responsibilities, spend excessive amounts of time playing online and hide their addiction from family and friends. Unlike physical casinos and gambling venues, online gambling activities can take place at any time of the day and are more difficult to monitor. Moreover, it is easy for individuals to lie about their gambling habits as there is no face-to-face accountability.

Many factors can contribute to gambling addiction including daily life stresses, underlying mental health issues and a desire to avoid negative emotions such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, a person’s environment can be influenced by social pressure to gamble or by peer influence. Psychotherapy can help individuals identify and deal with these problems to modify self-destructive behaviors. Inpatient rehabilitation programs are best for individuals with moderate to severe gambling addiction. These programs offer a structured setting wherein patients are not permitted to access websites, apps or platforms that encourage gambling.