Warning Signs Of Compulsive Gambling
Most people who gamble do so with no harmful effects. They set limits and stick to them. However, for a small percentage of the population, gambling can become more than a game, and lead to serious consequences for both the gambler and their family. Here are some of the warning signs: For the Gambler: Gambling to escape worry. Feeling a constant urge to gamble even when you are already in a difficult financial situation, or gambling as a way out of financial difficulty are both common symptoms of a gambling addiction. This is one of the first signs of gambling addiction. The best thing to do at this point is to get support from loved ones and certified therapists. Financial problems. Another common sign of compulsive gambling disorder is financial issues. Gamblers can borrow money from anyone including strangers and find it difficult to pay back. Compulsive gambling warning signs include: Preoccupation — Individuals with gambling problems find it difficult to focus on anything but gambling. They may have a hard time completing tasks because thinking about gambling memories, fantasies or upcoming events is irresistible.
Problem Gambling Warning Signs
- Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?
- Have you ever lied to people important to you about how much you gambled?
- Have you repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop gambling?
- Do you gamble as a way of escaping emotional or physical pain?
- Have you ever relied on others to provide money to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling?
- Have you ever jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job or career opportunity because of gambling?
- Have you gambled to get money with which to pay debts or to solve other financial problems?
- Have you borrowed money to finance your gambling?
- Has gambling ever made your home life unhappy?
- Do you gamble to try to get your money back?
Problem gambling is thought to be a progressive disorder, traveling through four phases. Although this describes the four phases of what is commonly called the 'Escape' gambler, anyone experiencing problems in life due to gambling will probably be able to identify with this progression.
Warning Signs Of Compulsive Gambling Treatment
If someone answers 'yes' to seven or more of these questions, Gamblers Anonymous suggests it is an indication of a serious problem.
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria: Gambling Disorder
Warning Signs Of Compulsive Gambling Laws
A score of five or more is categorized as pathological gambling, but a score of three or four could indicate a serious concern for the problems gambling is creating in one's life.