Understanding Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is any gambling behavior, which causes disruptions in any major area of life; psychological, physical, social or vocational. The good news is that once identified, problem gambling can be successfully treated.

The National Council on Problem Gambling lists the following as signs of problem gambling behavior:

• Gambling longer than initially planned
• Often gambling until your last dollar is gone
• Losing sleep due to thoughts of gambling
• Using your income or savings to gamble, while letting bills go unpaid
• Making repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling
• Breaking the law or considering breaking the law to finance gambling habit
• Borrowing money from friends, family or others to finance gambling habit
• Feeling depressed or suicidal due to gambling losses
• Being remorseful and experiencing sadness after gambling
• Gambling in order to get money to meet financial obligations

How to Find Help

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please call the confidential 24-hour, toll-free Problem Gambling Helpline. Experienced counselors are on hand to answer your questions and provide helpful information on available treatment programs and support resources in your area.

Information is available through the National Council on Problem Gambling website www.ncpgambling.org

24-Hour Problem Gamblers Helpline 1.800.522.4700