Warning signs

Harmful gambling is a repetitive behavior which leads one to spend money on lottery tickets, mobile gaming, bingo, video lottery terminals, slot machines, high risk stocks, sports betting and poker or other card games. Dependence can result in serious health, legal and financial problems, as well as family disturbances.

Not all people who gamble excessively are alike, nor are the issues they face. People with gambling problems include all age groups, income levels, cultures and jobs. Some people develop gambling problems suddenly, others over many years.

Gambling problems share many similarities with other addictive disorders. However, often there are no physical changes that indicate a gambling problem. Instead, there are common behavioural, emotional and financial signs.

You may have issues with gambling if you:

• stop doing things you previously enjoyed
• miss family events
• change patterns of sleep, eating or sex
• ignore self-care, work, school or family tasks
• have conflicts with other people over money
• use alcohol or other drugs more often, especially after a major gambling loss
• leave children alone, less concerned about who looks after them
• frequently borrow money or ask for salary advances
• take a second job without a change in finances
• cheat or steal to get money to gamble or pay debts
• organize staff pools
• are gone for long, unexplained periods of time
• cannot reach your goals

A gambling problem may develop for many reasons. For example, some try to win back money they have lost or because they like to be “in the action.” Others consider gambling a welcome relief from life stressors. Some find peer influence a huge source of motivation to begin gambling, along with the fantasy of what might happen if they “win big.”

People experiencing extreme changes such as loss, divorce, a sudden move or retirement are at a higher risk of developing a gambling addiction, along with those who are lonely or prone to impulsive behaviour.