Signs of Problem Gambling
Could gambling be creating difficulties for you or someone close to you? Problem gambling is more common than many people realize. As with 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 Signs 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 become consumed by thoughts of gameplay, 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 linked to a triggering event. Some people gamble to escape a difficult relationship or job; 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 what is happening. 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 they are playing slot machines or table games such as blackjack or roulette, they may feel driven to increase their bets to recapture the excitement of a win. Unfortunately, larger and more frequent bets can lead to greater losses too.
Unable to Stop
People with a gambling problem may understand that their behaviour is harmful and feel bad about it, yet stopping can be extremely difficult, as with other addictions. They may come up with reasons why they “have” to gamble. They might try to quit or cut back, but often have little success.
Constantly Chasing Losses
Losses are inevitable when gambling at a casino. The house has an edge, and no matter what 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 bigger losses. Chasing losses can eventually leave a person deeply in debt.
Turning to Theft or Fraud
When gambling addiction drains available funds, a person may look for other ways to get money. In some cases, that can mean 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 intervenes.
Borrowing Money
Borrowing is another common way for people with compulsive gambling to fund continued play. They may ask friends, family or co-workers for money, or turn to credit card companies. They often hide the real reason and give a false explanation, such as needing help with rent or a bill. If problem gambling persists, they may no longer have the means 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 can seem less important. Relationships may suffer, work performance can decline and schoolwork may be neglected. A person may also miss valuable travel, career or educational opportunities because gambling comes first.
Developing an Obsession
Gambling can go beyond fun and excitement and become an obsession. At that stage, a person may be unable to stop thinking about gambling and may constantly look forward to the next chance to play. Conversations can keep turning back to gaming, while free time goes towards researching casinos and gambling strategies.
Getting Help for Problem Gambling
Recognizing that gambling has become a problem is an important step towards recovery. Self-help may include finding another activity, building a stronger support network and joining a peer support group. If these steps are not enough, talk to a doctor about treatment options, which may include inpatient treatment or rehabilitation, or cognitive behavioural therapy.
