Online Gambling is any type of gambling that is conducted through a telecommunications system. This includes internet-based casinos, sports betting, and poker. It does not include video lottery terminals (VLT). In the US, this activity generates $12 billion in gross gambling revenues annually.

Online gambling can be exciting and fun, but for millions of people, it can also lead to serious harm. Problem gambling is an addiction, and it’s a growing epidemic. It’s important to recognize and address problem gambling to protect your health, relationships, and finances.

Many online casinos offer self-exclusion programs, which allow users to block access to their account for a certain period of time. This can help you refocus on other aspects of your life and reduce the urge to gamble. Identifying underlying issues like anxiety, depression, or boredom can also improve your quality of life and decrease the need to gamble.

The American Psychiatric Association classifies gambling disorder as an addictive behavior, and it can have negative consequences for your health. In addition to financial difficulties, problem gambling can cause emotional stress and disrupt your sleep and eating patterns. It can also lead to social isolation, as you may spend less time with friends and family and more time on the computer.