Online Gambling is gambling that is done through apps or websites on mobile devices like smart phones and tablets. It is popular because people can gamble anywhere they have an internet connection. People can bet on horse racing or sports such as AFL or play casino games or pokies. It is easy to access and allows people to gamble anonymously away from family members who might notice a problem or call out unsafe behaviour.

Despite the convenience and popularity of online gambling, it can have significant consequences. Addiction to online gambling can lead to financial ruin and emotional distress. Individuals may spend more money than they can afford and accumulate massive debts, which can cause stress, anxiety, and isolation. It can also interfere with personal relationships and job performance. Addiction to online gambling can be difficult to recognize and treat.

There are several ways that individuals can get help for their addiction to online gambling. A therapist can help identify and address underlying issues that are contributing to the gambling behavior. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals identify faulty thinking patterns that contribute to harmful behaviours, such as feeling “due to win” after a series of losses. Motivational interviewing can also be useful in helping an individual to identify their ambivalence about change and develop strategies for changing their gambling habits. Lastly, group counseling can be an effective method for treating gambling addiction. Often times, a person’s addiction to gambling is a symptom of another underlying mental health issue, such as depression or anxiety.