While gambling is a form of entertainment for most people, for others it is a devastating medical condition.
Most people are unaware of the dangers of problem gambling or that it is a treatable medical condition. Certain things may make people more susceptible such as financial distress, substance abuse, mental health problems, or peer pressure.
Gambling problems not only impact the person who is gambling but also frequently cause distress for family, friends, and co-workers. And a gambling problem can become an addiction.
Who can become a problem gambler?
A problem gambler can be any age, gender, ethnicity, religion or socio-economic status. There are risk factors that can increase a person’s susceptibility to developing a gambling problem, such as a family history of problem gambling, a big win early in one’s gambling experience, loneliness, boredom, peer pressure, a history of substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Gambling becomes a problem when the person’s life is negatively impacted, causing conflicts in relationships with family members, friends or co-workers. Often people may not realize they have a gambling problem. Once aware of the gambling problem, a person’s feelings of shame, embarrassment or hopelessness may prevent them from seeking help. Finally, they may not know help is available or how to find it.
Common Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent serious financial, emotional, and relationship consequences.
- Spending more money than intended on gambling.
- Gambling for longer periods of time than intended.
- Getting into serious financial trouble because of gambling.
- Lying to cover up gambling losses.
- Using gambling to escape personal problems and distressing feelings.
- Thinking about gambling all the time.
- Being unable to set limits.
- Gambling in spite of losing more than can be afforded.
- Problems paying bills because of gambling losses.
- Not paying bills to cover gambling losses.
- Gambling to cover losses.
- Destroying families and relationships because of gambling.
- Borrowing or stealing money from family, friends, or employers to keep on gambling.
- Experiencing poor job performance or losing a job because of gambling.
Prevention Tips
Healthy gambling habits start with setting limits and staying aware. These simple prevention tips can help keep gambling from becoming a problem.
Play for Fun
Gamble for entertainment, not as a way to make money.
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can afford to spend before gambling and stick to it.
Never Chase Losses
Trying to win back lost money often leads to even bigger losses.
Limit Your Time
Set time limits for gambling and take regular breaks.
Avoid Mixing Alcohol & Gambling
Drinking while gambling can lead to poor decisions and loss of control.
Keep Balance
Balance gambling with other hobbies, activities, and social connections.
Did you know:
- One individual who struggles with problems due to gambling negatively affects 7-10 people within their immediate circle.
- Gambling should never be viewed as a financial solution.
- Individuals with substance use and mental health disorders are at a higher risk for having a gambling problem.
- Relationship violence and child abuse are correlated with problem gambling and severely aggravated if substance use is involved.
- 50% of people struggling with problems due to gambling/gambling addiction have had thoughts of suicide.
- Although gambling is illegal for youth under the age of 18, 33% of Maryland high school students gamble. Of that group, 30% will develop a gambling problem.
- Nearly 10% of US Veterans struggle with disordered gambling, a rate two-three times higher than the general population.
- 2% of older adults in Maryland are problem gamblers.
Tips to help you talk to friends, family and others about problem gambling.
Get Help.
No Cost Treatment is Available for Anyone Wanting Help for a Gambling Problem
Counseling for gambling problems at no cost to Maryland residents is now available for anyone seeking help regardless of insurance coverage, financial status, or ability to pay. You, or someone you know, can receive help for a gambling problem without adding any additional financial burden to your life.
1-800-GAMBLER
Call or text TODAY! 1-800-426-2537