Online Gambling is an estimated $9.5 billion per year business, and while it can be fun, for millions of Americans, it has led to gambling-related problems. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a person with gambling disorder is in the same category as those with addictions to alcohol and other drugs.

A wide variety of websites and mobile apps offer casino games, sports betting, poker, fantasy sports, and lotteries. The convenience and accessibility of these platforms are attractive to many individuals. They also offer anonymity, which can make it difficult for friends and family to monitor their activities. These factors contribute to the addictive properties of gambling online.

Research suggests that a combination of psychological and neurobiological causes leads to online gambling problems. Psychological triggers include daily life stresses and underlying mental health issues. In addition, the release of dopamine and other feel-good neurotransmitters in a person who wins a game can reinforce addictive behaviors. Neurobiological triggers also include the brain’s “reward center,” which rewards winning and punishes losing.

Signs and symptoms of online gambling addiction can include neglecting responsibilities, lying to loved ones about the extent of their gambling, restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down on spending, and feeling withdrawal symptoms when they’re unable to access a gaming platform. People who have these symptoms can benefit from inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs. Inpatient programs are most appropriate for people with moderate to severe gambling addiction, while outpatient rehab is best for those with mild addiction.