Gambling taps into the same psychological and emotional circuitry as religion: hope, belief, ritual and the deep human need to feel “chosen.” And while it might seem irrational to put $20 into a slot machine hoping you’ll defy odds and beat the math, researchers have found that putting in that bet does make you feel good. That’s because, when you gamble, your brain releases dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that gives you a temporary rush of optimism and the sensation of being alive.

This is why it’s easy to get addicted to gambling, even if you never win a thing. The more you lose, the more dopamine is released in your brain, and the less control you have over your behavior. This is why it’s important to learn about gambling addiction and how to recognize it.

It’s also worth noting that, while most people with a gambling disorder do attend Gamblers Anonymous, many pathological gamblers are unable to be completely cured of their disorder. Rather, they will probably always need to take precautions against excessive gambling. And for every person who does experience a severe gambling problem, it is estimated that an average of six other family members are affected.

Research suggests that some people may be genetically predisposed to impulsivity and thrill-seeking behaviors. Others may have an underactive reward system in the brain or be predisposed to certain types of gambling. Still others may have an underactive hippocampus, which can impair their ability to weigh risk and reward. And the availability of more gambling opportunities than ever before — including legal sports betting in 37 states and Washington, DC, and video games with gambling elements for both adults and children — is making it easier for some people to engage in problematic gambling.

Cultural factors can also shape the way we view gambling activity and what might constitute a gambling disorder. For example, some communities may consider gambling to be a fun pastime that can provide social benefits. In addition, the stigma attached to gambling can make it difficult for vulnerable individuals to seek help when they need it.

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce or stop gambling problems. This includes talking to someone you trust who won’t judge you, such as a friend or family member, or getting professional support from a counsellor or psychiatrist. It’s also important to reduce financial risk factors and find other ways to socialise and feel fulfilled outside of gambling venues. Lastly, people with a gambling disorder can be helped by implementing preventive measures, such as universal pre-commitment (requiring people to set binding limits on time and money spent gambling) and self-exclusion systems. Prevention is the most cost-effective way to minimize gambling-related harm. But, it’s important to remember that prevention is only possible if you’re willing to take it up. Otherwise, you’ll never succeed. Then you’ll just be wasting your time. And who wants that?