Problem Gambling

Information and educational resources

There is no stereotypical compulsive gambler since they come in all ages and both genders.

Increasing the frequency of gambling activity
Increasing the amount of money being gambled
Gambling for longer periods of time or with more money than originally planned
Spending an excessive amount of free time gambling
Thinking or daydreaming about gambling or getting money to gamble
Missing school, family activities or work to gamble
Experiencing a special and intense pleasure or an aroused sense of being in "action" while gambling
Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences, such as:
- Large losses
- Being late to or missing school
- Experiencing family problems
Gambling to cope with loneliness, anger, stress or depression
"Chasing" or having an urgent need to continue gambling, increasing the amount of bets or taking more chances in order to make up for a loss or series of losses
Borrowing, stealing or selling personal items to obtain money to gamble
Bragging about wins, but not talking about losses
Having frequent mood swings, higher when winning, lower when losing
Lying or being secretive to keep family and friends from knowing how much money is gambled

Information courtesy of the Calvary Addiction Recovery Center