Gambling is often thrilling and it is extremely fun in moderation. That said, it has the potential to become an addiction. Gambling excessively can negatively impact your life. It’s important to learn the warning signs and indicators of problem gambling. If you notice you might have a problem, it is important to get help immediately.
Answering “yes” to any or all of the following questions can be an indication of problem gambling:
- Has gambling ever caused you to miss school or work?
- Has gambling negatively affected your reputation?
- Do you ever feel regretful after gambling?
- Have you attempted to solve financial difficulties through gambling?
- Have you ever borrowed money or sold items to gamble?
- Does your gambling negatively impact your home environment?
- Has gambling caused you to lose ambition for other endeavors?
- Do you feel the need to win back your losses?
- Do you have a strong urge to gamble more after a win?
- Do you often continue to gamble until you are out of money?
- Do you consider your “gambling money” to be unavailable for necessities?
- Is gambling a means of escape for you?
- Has gambling ever negatively impacted your welfare or that of your family?
- Do you ever gamble longer than you intended?
- Have you ever considered committing an illegal act to finance gambling?
- Does gambling impact your ability to sleep?
- Do you have the urge to gamble as a means of celebrating other successes?
- Do life’s daily challenges give you a need to gamble?
- Has gambling ever led to the urge to self-harm or commit suicide?
If you answered “yes” to some of these questions, consider seeking help with the resources below.
Help by Location - https://support.ownersbox.com/hc/en-us/sections/25041516855437-Help-Counseling
Screenings Tools - https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/screening-tools/
Self-Help Toolkits - Created by the Cambridge Health Alliance, Division on Addiction https://www.divisiononaddiction.org/outreach-resources/your-first-step-to-change/