WARNING SIGNS
Signs someone you know may have a problem with gambling
There are a variety of signs that may indicate someone you know has a problem with their gambling. The more signs they show, the greater the chance of a problem. Some of these signs include:
- Constantly talking about gambling
- Spending more time or money on gambling than the individual can afford
- Finding it difficult to control, stop, or cut down gambling, or feeling irritable when trying to do so
- Gambling more in order to win back losses or get out of financial trouble
- Thinking that gambling will get under control as soon as there’s a ‘big win’
- Borrowing money, selling things, committing (or considering committing) criminal acts in order to get money for gambling
- Having unexplained money or new possessions
- Having increased debt, unpaid bills, or other financial troubles because of gambling
- Often gambling until all of their 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 their 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 others
- 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
- For those who live with the person who may have a problem with their gambling, another sign may include having money or valuables that mysteriously disappear
Information about treatment centres, help line numbers and Gamblers Anonymous.
