WARNING SIGNS
Problem gambling, often referred to as the “hidden addiction,” can be challenging to identify. Unlike issues related to substance use, there typically are no visible physical signs of a problem, so instead, it’s important to keep an eye out for behaviors and emotions that may indicate that there is some type of an issue.
Below is a list of warning signs that may be related to a gambling problem.
- Increasing preoccupation with gambling
- Gambling more frequently or for longer than intended
- Defensiveness
- Unexplained temper / Irritability
- Sudden mood swings
- Using gambling to cope with stress/pressure
- Anxiety / Depression
- Lying about where money goes
- Unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling
- Distraction / Declining work or school performance
- Distancing or isolating from family or friends
- Unexplained absences from work/school
- Withdrawal from family/friends
- Chasing losses, or returning the next day to win back what was lost
- Committing/considering committing a crime to finance gambling
- Unable to pay bills or cover expenses
- Borrowing money in order to gamble
- Increase Debt / Financial issues