Warning Signs of Gambling Addiction

People with gambling addiction become obsessed with specific activities, to the point where they cannot control their urges. They may lose significant amounts of money or other valuables, and neglect work, school and family obligations in their pursuit of gambling. This behavior can have psychological, personal, social and professional consequences.

Gambling addiction can also affect your physical health, relationships and financial stability. Individuals who are addicted to gambling often max out their credit cards, borrow money or even steal to fund their habit. They will frequently deny that they have a problem and continue to “chase” their losses, believing that if they gamble enough they can win back their lost funds. This vicious cycle can be life-threatening, and individuals with this type of addiction have been known to attempt suicide.

Several warning signs can indicate that someone is struggling with gambling addiction, including:

Do you or a loved one seem to gamble as a way to mask problems, feel happy or elevate their mood? If so, this is a good indication that it is time to seek help.

Getting help for gambling addiction is possible, but it takes courage to admit that there is a problem and seek treatment. It is important to find a therapist who is specifically trained in dealing with this issue. Search online or contact your insurance provider for a list of local professionals. You can also seek support from gambling addicts’ support groups that offer local, telephone and online help.