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Gambling Addiction
You may have a gambling problem if you:
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Can not stop gambling without intervention
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Have problems with family, friends, work, school as a result of gambling
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Lie, cheat, steal and borrow money to gamble
Signs that you or someone you know may be addicted to gambling:
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Preoccupation with gambling
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Lying about your gambling and covering up
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Borrowing money, credit or debit cards
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Spending savings and retirement
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Not being able to pay your bills
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Unable to stop or cutback
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Chasing loses
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Committing crimes or fraud to get money
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Irrational thoughts
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Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol
There are differences between a social gambler and a pathological gambler (addicted gambler):
A social gambler:
- Gambles for fun and entertainment
- This is just one of the many things they do for fun
- Gambling takes up only a small portion of their time
A pathological gambler:
- Has crossed the line
- Can't stop without some kind of intervention or treatment
- Has disruptions in major life areas due to gambling
- Is completely obsessed with gambling
- Is lying, betting more and more, and always thinking of the “Next Big Win”
- Often develops some level of depression, has suicidal thoughts
- Believes that ALL of their problems would be solved if they could win just one more time
The social and pathological gambler are just two common types of gamblers, but there are many other types:
- Sports better
- Stock market gambler
- Professional gambler
There are ways to gamble responsibly, just remember these few tips:
- Only gamble for fun and entertainment
- Treat the money you lose as the cost of your entertainment
- Don’t borrow money or credit
- Set a certain amount to spend and leave when it is gone
- Don’t gamble to escape problems
- Expect to lose
Sources Available for Help:
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