Gambling may be bad but it's also another way to enjoy life and you must have limitation when gambling. Start with the money you afford to lose so that you still have money. Having strategy can also help you think gambling is not all about bringing a negative impact on your life. Stay Posirive, avoid getting involved too much.
I guess your right, gambling might have a negative effect on someone's social life but if it will be addressed correctly then it can also release stress. So doing gambling is just another way of recreation ad not for addiction.