WARNING SIGNS
Signs you may have a problem with gambling
There are a variety of signs that may indicate you have a problem with gambling. The more signs you show, the greater the chance of a problem. Some of these signs include:
- Constantly thinking or talking about gambling
- Spending more time or money on gambling than you can afford
- Finding it difficult to control, stop, or cut down gambling, or feeling irritable when trying to do so
- Feeling a sense of emptiness or loss when not gambling
- Gambling more in order to win back losses or get out of financial trouble
- Thinking that your gambling will get under control as soon you have a ‘big win’
- Borrowing money, selling things, committing (or considering committing) criminal acts in order to get money for gambling
- Having increased debt, unpaid bills, or other financial troubles because of your gambling
- Often gambling until all of your money is gone
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts of money or for longer periods of time in order to get the same feeling of excitement
- Experiencing extreme highs from gambling wins and extreme lows from gambling losses
- Gambling to escape personal problems or to relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or other negative emotions
- Getting irritated more easily or having less patience when dealing with normal, everyday activities
- Feeling guilty about gambling or what happens while gambling
- Getting criticized by others for your gambling
- Having arguments with friends or family about money and gambling
- Refusing to discuss gambling with others or lying to cover it up
- Hiding bills, past due notices, winnings, or losses from your partner or family member
- Gambling instead of attending family or other social functions
- Neglecting family or household responsibilities because of gambling
- Neglecting work or school because of gambling
- Neglecting personal needs (e.g., for food, sleep, hygiene) because of gambling
- Consistently or always planning holidays where gambling is available
Information about treatment centres, help line numbers and Gamblers Anonymous.
