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What is a Gambling Problem?

Home What is a Gambling Problem?

gam·ble


Gambling is any activity that involves risking something of value,
including but not limited to money or property,
on an event whose outcome is uncertain.

What is a Gambling Problem?

A gambling problem generally has 2 key features. One is impaired control. This means not being able to stick to limits of the amount of money and/or time that is spent gambling. The second feature is that the gambling causes personal emotional, financial, relationship or legal problems (negative life consequences).

Gambling problems not only impact the person who is gambling but also frequently cause distress for family and friends. Gambling problems can be mild or quite severe and often worsen over time.

Gambling problems were initially recognized as an impulse control disorder but have recently been reclassified by the American Psychiatric Association as an addiction.

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.

EXAMPLES OF GAMBLING

Blackjack  •  Bingo  •  Slot Machines  •  Roulette  •  Dice  •  Sports Betting  •  Poker •  Lottery Tickets  •  Scratch-Offs  •  Slot Machines  •  Keno

Elements of Gambling

  • Something valuable is being put at risk
  • The outcome of the game is determined by Chance
  • Once a bet is made, it is irreversible

Quick Facts

  • Gambling generates more revenue than movies, spectator sports, theme parks, cruise ships and recorded music combined.

    FACT
  • The gap between women and male gamblers is dwindling.

    FACT
  • Gambling Industry revenues total over $130 billion in the United States.

    FACT
  • People who live within ten miles of a casino are twice as likely to be a problem gambler or pathological gambler as those who do not

    FACT
  • It has been estimated that around 80 percent of the US population has gambled in their lifetime.

    FACT
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  • Home
  • What is a Gambling Problem?
  • Self-Assessment
  • Warning Signs
  • Safety Tips
  • Getting Help
  • Find a Counselor
  • Support Groups