What is Gambling?
Understanding how gambling works will help protect you from the risks of gambling.
Gambling happens when we risk something of value, when winning or losing is decided mostly by chance.
Most often, people who gamble risk money in hopes of winning a greater sum of money. For example, you might risk the cost of a lottery ticket for the chance at winning a large multimillion-dollar jackpot.
When we think about gambling, often places like casinos or racetracks come to mind — but gambling occurs in many other settings too, like gas stations, church halls, pubs, sporting events, and increasingly, online.
A Person is Gambling if...
Either of the following conditions apply:
1. They risk something of value
They take the chance of losing something of value, such as money or property.
2. The outcome has an element of chance
The outcome has an element of chance beyond the person’s control.
Gambling is Evolving
Gambling landscapes are continually evolving and becoming more popular and more accepted as leisure activities. New technologies and platforms have created spaces where the lines between gaming and gambling can blur, making it more accessible than ever.
Types of Gambling
Here are some common forms of gambling you may have heard of, and also some newer ways people may gamble now:
Lottery & Bingo
- Lottery tickets (649, scratch, pull tab)
- Bingo
- Charitable games (50/50, Chase the Ace)
Casino Games
- Table games (blackjack, roulette)
- Slot Machines
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs)
Sports & Racing
- Sports betting (single event, proline, fantasy)
- Horse racing
Online & Digital
- Online casino games (slots, poker)
- Online sports betting
Social & Informal
- Card games with friends
Emerging Forms
- Prediction markets (Kalshi, Polymarket)
- Stock market speculation
- Video gaming and E-sports
Why do people gamble?
It may seem a simple answer .... people gamble for the chance to win money or a prize ... but really people gamble for different reasons. Most gamble for fun and as a form of entertainment, or for social time with friends. But some people may turn to gambling to alleviate stress and pain, escape problems in their lives, or cope with loneliness and boredom.
When people gamble, parts of our brain can be triggered with feelings of excitement and pleasure, making us want to keep going so that feeling lasts. It's important that we recognize that all forms of gambling are inherently risky. Every time we make the choice to gamble, the chances are always greater to lose than to win. Every time!
There's always a greater chance to lose money than to make money when gambling.
That's the "house advantage" built into every game to make sure the operators of the games always make money. For that reason, it's best to think of gambling as a form of entertainment to play within your budget.
Need Help or Have Questions?
Professional counsellors are available 24/7 to talk confidentially whenever you need support.
- PEI Gambling Support Line: 1-855-255-4255
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868