These warning signs may signal that you or someone you love has developed a problem with gambling. If any of these signs sound familiar, reach out for free, confidential support.
- Constantly thinking about gambling (reliving past gambling experiences, planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get gambling money, etc.)
- Being secretive about gambling habits and defensive when confronted
- Lying to family and others about the extent of gambling
- Increasing bet amounts to achieve the desired excitement (“high”)
- Trying unsuccessfully to control, cut back or stop gambling
- Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling
- Gambling to escape problems
- Chasing losses with more gambling
- Committing crimes to finance gambling
- Jeopardizing or losing relationships, jobs, education or career opportunities because of gambling
- Relying on others to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling