Warning Signs Of Problem Gambling
You think there might be signs of problem gambling brewing in your home. You’ve noticed one whose activity occurs behind closed doors or in secrecy. One whose consequences are starting to show up when money goes missing and bills aren’t being paid by your partner.
But you aren’t quite sure.
Signs and symptoms of compulsive gambling (gambling disorder) include: Being preoccupied with gambling, such as constantly planning how to get more gambling money Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill Trying to control, cut back or stop gambling, without success. Financial hardship is one of the warning signs of gambling addiction that is exacerbated by other gambling addiction symptoms, such as losing jobs or opportunities to advance at school or work. The good news is that gambling addiction is curable. Online casinos not only encourage responsible gambling practices, but also assist players in detecting if they have gambling addiction problems. 10 common warnings signs of gambling problem. Warning signs for gambling addiction are not difficult to see, if you want to take heed. Gambling is recognised as a serious addiction. For the 2018 World Cup, the amount of money spent on gambling is expected to hit £2.5 billion in the UK, and over 400,000 of us are identified as problem gamblers. People are also concerned with the rise of problematic use of social media and video games.
The causes of gambling addiction are relatively unknown, but like many problems, it appears to originate as a result of a combination of biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Compulsive gambling can impact both men and women equally, and knows no bounds as far as social, cultural, and socioeconomic factors are concerned.
Or, maybe you’re worried about your child and where their lunch money is going every day. Influenced by television, movies and online, your child is bragging about new possessions and has a constant focus on “winning.”
Or, maybe you’re worried about excessive gambling of your own. How much is too much?
Problem gambling is a widespread issue faced by hundreds of thousands of New York residents every year. Nationwide, millions of people battle the addiction of gambling through common methods such as online gaming, lottery tickets and casino spending.
Like many addictions, gambling is not always recognized immediately, and the consequences often reach a staggering level before any attempts to control it are made.
Signs of Problem Gambling
We understand not everyone wants to ask for support, and diagnosing a gambling problem of your own or of someone else is stressful and can cause fear of embarrassment or shaming and labeling. While we strongly encourage you to seek help as soon as gambling activity seems questionable, understanding recognized warning signs of problem gambling may help you identify whether there is a problem and reinforce your decision to seek assistance.
Concerned about yourself?
When seeking to understand your own potential gambling problem, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you gamble to escape worry, boredom or trouble?
- Do thoughts of gambling disrupt your sleep?
- Do arguments, disappointments or frustrations cause you to gamble?
- Have you ever had self-destructive thoughts because of problems resulting from gambling?
- Have you noticed a personality change since you began gambling?
Answering questions like these is a good first step in identifying your own gambling problem.
Concerned about others?
While you may not be the one gambling, you can observe changes in the personality and behavior of someone with a gambling addiction. Asking your child, loved one or coworkers questions such as the ones provided below:
- Does your loved one ever gamble longer than originally planned?
- Do you hide the rent/mortgage or food money because your loved one gambles it away?
- Is your child borrowing or stealing money?
- Does your child have an unusual interest in newspapers, magazines, periodicals and other outlets containing odds and scores?
- Does your employee or coworker spend an excessive time away from his or her job using the telephone to place bets or spending time reviewing formsheets, racing, sports or stock pages?
Ask the Right Questions – and Get Help
Provided above were just a few examples of the warning signs that may present themselves when a gambling problem exists. For a complete list of problem gambling warning signs, read Know The Odds’ Understanding Problem Gambling e-book. Section 04 provides an extensive list of questions to ask when identifying whether you, your loved one, your child or your coworker have a gambling problem.
If answering these questions leads you to believe a gambling addiction is present, seek immediate help. Visit the Gambling Support Directory to find counseling and support in a New York county near you, or reach out for help through the HOPEline today: 1-877-8-HOPENY.