Frequently Asked Questions

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General

Problem gambling involves gambling behaviors that negatively affect a person or their family, often disrupting their daily life and careers. In severe cases, problem gambling can lead to financial ruin, legal issues, job loss, family breakdown, and even suicide. For more information on the American Psychiatric Association’s criteria for gambling addiction, please see the DSM 5 at psych.org.

Anyone who gambles can be at risk of developing a gambling problem. It is important to be aware of the risks and to gamble responsibly. When gambling behavior interferes with finances, relationships and the workplace, a serious problem already exists.

Some warning signs to look for are thinking about gambling frequently, feeling the need to bet more money and more often, spending more money to chase losses, feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop gambling, feelings of not being able to control the gambling, gambling despite negative consequences, and in extreme cases, gambling thatleads to bankruptcy, legal problems, loss of job or relationships, and thoughts of suicide.

Generally, people with one addiction are more susceptible to developing another. However, having a gambling problem does not necessarily mean you will develop other addictions. Some individuals with gambling problems never experience other addictions because no other substance or activity provides the same sensation as gambling.

Two million U.S. adults (1%) are estimated to meet the criteria for severe gambling problems each year. Another 4-6 million (2-3%) would be considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems; that is, they do not meet the full criteria for gambling addiction but meet one or more of the criteria and are experiencing issues due to their gambling behavior. Research also indicates that most adults who gamble can do it responsibly.

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) estimates the annual national social cost of problem gambling is $7 billion. This includes gambling-related criminal justice and healthcare spending as well as job loss, bankruptcy and other consequences.

There is no correlation between the frequency of a person’s gambling and their addiction. Even if done periodically, the emotional and financial consequences can still significantly impact their personal and family life.

People addicted to gambling get the same effects from gambling as someone may get from a drug or drinking alcohol. As time goes on, an individual with unhealthy gambling habits can find that it takes increasingly more gambling to achieve the same emotional effect as before.

Family members can seek help through various avenues to support themselves and their loved ones. Seek support groups and/or, professional counseling for themselves or their family, learn about gambling addictions and financial management, set clear boundaries for themselves, encourage professional help for the gambler, prioritize self-care, and reach out to helplines and online resources. By taking these steps, family members can find the support they need and develop strategies to cope with the challenges of living with someone who has a gambling addiction.

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Take a Safer Approach to Gambling

Some tips are:

Take Assessment

Self Reflection & Steps Towards Recovery

If you frequently think about gambling, it could be a sign of a gambling problem. Acknowledging this behavior is the first step towards seeking help.

If yes, this can lead to a cycle of dependency and increased emotional distress. Identify healthier coping mechanisms such as exercising, journaling, music, reading, volunteering, etc.

Gambling problems can strain relationships, leading to loss of trust and contact. Open communication and seeking support together can help rebuild your important relationships.

Identifying triggers specific to you, such as stress, can help you develop strategies to avoid or cope with them. Developing a new routine or gaining a new hobby may help manage these triggers.

Reflecting on the positive outcomes, such as improved relationships, working toward financial stability, and better mental health, can motivate you to stay committed. Celebrating small milestones with healthy rewards, such as a meal with friends, can help you commit to recovery.

Identifying triggers specific to you, such as stress, can help you develop strategies to avoid or cope with them. Developing a new routine or gaining a new hobby may help manage these triggers.

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Seeking Professional Help

Some great support resources available to you are 1-800-GAMBLER, gambler’s anonymous, online forums, and professional counselors specializing in gambling addiction.

Signs include the inability to stop gambling despite severe consequences, severe financial loss, and negative impacts on mental health as well as relationships.

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