In This Section
Problem Gambling
Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with problem gambling. I hope that this information is helpful in educating and guiding you in your decisions about gambling. This information on problem gambling is offered solely in the interest of helping those individuals who have developed problems with their gambling behaviors. If you or someone you know exhibits the behaviors of problem gambling, seek help. The information provided here is not meant to be a substitute for treatment.
What is problem or pathological gambling? Problem gambling is behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social, or vocational. The term "Problem Gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "Pathological", or "Compulsive" Gambling, a progressive addiction. Pathological Gambling is a diagnosable and treatable condition.
Symptoms of Compulsive Gambling. Despite all the negative consequences, compulsive gamblers will go to great length to deny or even cover up their problem. There are specific behavior patterns associated with compulsive gambling. Gamblers who can recognize these patterns can cope with their addiction and recover a life free from gambling. In this section you will learn about the signs of "Compulsive" Gambling.
Different types of problem gamblers. When some people think of gambling, they think of casino gambling or race tracks. Lotteries, bingos, scratch tickets, stock market speculation, slot machines, card games and sports betting are examples of forms of gambling. Just like there are many forms of gambling, there are many types of gamblers.
Phases of Compulsive Gambling. Until the 1990's, only three phases of pathological gambling were noted. Many clinicians and experts who treat pathological gamblers now say a fourth phase exists. People who are becoming compulsive gamblers go through four phases of addiction: Winning, Losing, Desperation and Hopeless.
Families of Compulsive Gamblers. Compulsive gambling harms marriages and family life. The gambler's obsession steals time and attention away from the gambler's spouse and children. Feeling abandoned, his or her loved ones experience problems of self-worth and suffer bouts of depression. The family unit can unravel.
Problem Gambling and the Workplace. There has begun to be a recognition that an employer or employee with a gambling problem can have a devastating effect on the workplace. The workpalce is primarily affected through lost time, productivity and in desperate situations the gambler may resort to theft, fraud or embezzlement.
Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse. Often, problem gambling is accompanied by substance abuse. Research shows that about half of all compulsive gamblers have had problems with alcohol or other drugs. Conversely, it is estimated that 25 - 35 percent of all people with alcohol and drug problems have also had gambling problems.
This information on problem gambling is offered solely in the interest of helping those individuals who have developed problems with their gambling behaviors. If you or someone you know exhibits the behaviors of problem gambling, seek help. The information provided here is not meant to be a substitute for treatment.