Online Gambling involves the use of a computer or mobile device to wager on games of chance such as online slots, sports betting and lottery tickets. Online gambling sites accept wagers through payment processors and are subject to regulation on a state-by-state basis.

The advent of the World Wide Web in the late 1990s allowed people to gamble from anywhere with a computer and an Internet connection. As a result, online gambling quickly grew in popularity. The Internet’s ability to support large wagers, continuous gambling, and instant, easy access to a wide range of betting options has raised concerns that online gambling could contribute to problem gambling.

Many factors contribute to a person’s desire to gamble online, including psychological causes. For example, daily life stresses and underlying mental health problems can trigger online gambling. Researchers have also found that those with schizophrenia and related disorders, unipolar depression and cluster B personality disorder are more likely to gamble online than those without these conditions.

Other factors include a person’s level of impulse control and their family and social support system. Those who are concerned about their gambling habits can seek treatment through therapy and support groups. Some may even consider a residential addiction treatment center, which can provide intensive care and longer-term recovery support for those with severe problems.