Signs of Problem Gambling
Is gambling causing problems for you or someone close to you? Problem gambling is more common than many people think. Like drugs and alcohol, repeated gambling can change neural circuits involved in impulse control and decision-making. Continued play and wins stimulate the brain’s reward system and may, in some cases, contribute to addiction.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Problem Gambling
Compulsive gambling is a serious condition that can harm every part of a person’s life. Common signs of problem gambling include:
Persistent Preoccupation
When gambling becomes an addiction, it can have a powerful effect on a person’s thoughts and feelings. They may be consumed by thoughts of playing, strategy and winning, while constantly looking for ways to get more money to gamble. For some, this preoccupation becomes overwhelming and starts to affect their overall well-being.
Gambling to Escape Problems
Addiction is often associated with a triggering event. Some people gamble to get away from a difficult relationship or job, while others seek relief from guilt, anxiety, depression or helplessness. Compulsive gambling can also develop after a traumatic experience, such as a death in the family or a serious injury or illness.
Lying to Others
As gambling changes from a pastime into a serious addiction, a person may lie to hide it. People affected by gambling addiction may feel guilty or ashamed of their behaviour and conceal their gambling from family and friends.
Continuing to Bet More Money
People experiencing gambling problems often find it hard to walk away. Whether playing slot machines or a table game such as blackjack or roulette, they may feel driven to keep raising their bets to recapture the excitement of a win. Unfortunately, larger and more frequent bets can also bring greater losses.
Being Unable to Stop
People who gamble compulsively may know their behaviour is harmful and feel bad about it, yet find it extremely difficult to stop, as with other addictions. Someone with a gambling problem may come up with reasons they “have” to gamble. They might try to quit or cut back, but often make little progress.
Constantly “Chasing” Losses
Losses are an inevitable part of casino gambling. The house has an edge, and whatever strategies you use, you are likely to lose more than you win over time. People with gambling addictions may repeatedly try to win back lost money, leading to even greater losses. Chasing losses can eventually leave gamblers deeply in debt.
Turning to Theft or Fraud
Once a gambling addiction has exhausted available funds, a person may seek other ways to get money. In some cases, this means theft or fraud to keep playing. Someone might steal from friends or family, rob a bank or business, or take items to sell. This cycle of theft, fraud and deception can continue for years or end only when law enforcement steps in.
Borrowing Money
Borrowing is another common way compulsive gamblers fund continued play. They may ask friends, relatives or coworkers for money, or turn to credit card companies. They often hide the real reason and make up an excuse, such as needing help with rent or a bill. If the problem continues, they may no longer be able to repay what they owe.
Putting Opportunities at Risk
Gambling addiction affects more than a person’s finances. When gambling becomes the top priority, other parts of life may seem less important. Relationships may suffer, work performance may fall and schoolwork may be neglected. A person may also miss valuable travel, career or education opportunities because gambling takes priority.
Developing an Obsession
Gambling can stop being fun and exciting and become an obsession. The person may be unable to stop thinking about gambling and may constantly look forward to the next chance to play. Conversations may keep returning to gaming, while free time goes to researching casinos and gambling strategies.
Get Help for Problem Gambling
Recognizing that gambling has become a problem is an important step towards recovery. Self-help options may include finding another activity, building a stronger support network and joining a peer support group. If these steps are not enough, talk with a doctor about treatment options, which may include inpatient treatment or rehab, or cognitive-behavioural therapy.
