What is Problem Gambling?

10 Signs of Problem Gambling Problem

People often think that problem gambling refers only to those individuals who gamble too often or lose more money than they can afford. The truth is, problem gambling can include a variety of gambling behaviors that negatively effect a person's work, family, school or social life. Problem gambling sometimes includes the condition known as compulsive gambling, but anyone who exhibits or experiences five or more of the characteristic symptoms below could be categorized as a problem gambler.

  • preoccupation with gambling-related thoughts, plans or activities;
  • needing to gamble with increased sums to produce the desired excitement;
  • having made repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back or stop gambling;
  • restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling;
  • gambling to escape from problems or relieve an undesired mood such as helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression;
  • after losing money gambling, often returning to try to win it back (chasing losses);
  • lying to conceal gambling activities or consequences;
  • committing illegal acts to finance gambling;
  • jeopardizing or losing a significant relationship, job, educational or career opportunity because of gambling;
  • relying on a "bailout" (money from others to relieve a desperate gambling-related financial situation)
(Adapted from: American Psychiatric Association Advisory on Internet Gambling)

To learn if you or someone you know has a gambling problem, visit the Learn the Signs section of this web site.