Often it doesn’t, or at least not until the
problem has become a crisis. There are no obvious symptoms, like the slurred
speech of someone who is drunk or the changed personality of someone who
is high on drugs. The problem gambler is usually skilled at keeping up
appearances.
Problem gambling is often overlooked because no one is looking for it.
The following signs could indicate
a gambling problem:
Irregular
work hours. Sometimes the gambler will work longer days than usual, to
earn overtime pay in order to replace “borrowed” funds
Excessive
time spent on personal phone calls
Poor concentration
Stress,
poor health. As debts mount and the addiction takes hold, they may suffer
from depression, insomnia, loss of appetite, headaches, stomach problems,
and high blood pressure
Mood swings
Gambling
at work. Especially in the early stages, the person may organize office
pools, play cards during breaks, or challenge co-workers with bets about
news events, the weather, or a co-worker’s expected baby
Cash advances,
loans
Discomfort
when talking about finances
Personal
bills received at work. In an effort to conceal expenditures from spouse,
the gambler redirects credit card statements and bills to a work address
Phone
calls from credit agencies received at work
Problems
at home
Theft
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