Gambling Addiction Resources

Recognizing and addressing gambling addiction is crucial for maintaining financial stability and personal well-being. This page provides information to help identify signs of gambling addiction and offers resources for support and treatment.

Recognizing Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite negative consequences. Common signs include:

  • Preoccupation with Gambling: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning future gambling activities, or reliving past gambling experiences.
  • Increasing Bets: Needing to gamble with larger amounts of money to achieve the same excitement.
  • Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
  • Gambling to Escape: Using gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
  • Chasing Losses: Continuing to gamble to recover lost money.
  • Lying About Gambling: Concealing the extent of gambling activities from family or friends.
  • Jeopardizing Relationships and Opportunities: Risking or losing significant relationships, jobs, or educational opportunities because of gambling.
  • Financial Problems: Accumulating debts, borrowing money, or selling possessions to finance gambling.

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know, it’s important to seek help promptly.

Resources for Help

Several organizations offer support and treatment for individuals struggling with gambling addiction:

  • National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for confidential assistance and referrals to local resources. (ncpgambling.org)
  • National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Provides a range of resources, including a self-assessment tool and information about treatment options. (ncpgambling.org)
  • Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling: Offers support and resources for individuals in Washington State. (evergreencpg.org)
  • Gamblers Anonymous: A 12-step program offering support groups for individuals seeking to overcome gambling addiction. (gamblersanonymous.org)
  • SMART Recovery: Provides a 4-Point Program® designed to help individuals overcome addictive behaviors, including gambling. (smartrecovery.org)

Tips for Managing Gambling Urges

  • Self-Exclusion: Consider enrolling in self-exclusion programs that restrict access to gambling venues and online platforms.
  • Financial Management: Limit access to funds that can be used for gambling by setting budgets or having someone else manage your finances temporarily.
  • Alternative Activities: Engage in hobbies or activities that provide enjoyment and fulfillment without the risks associated with gambling.
  • Professional Support: Seek counseling or therapy from professionals specializing in gambling addiction.

Remember, acknowledging the problem is the first step toward recovery. Support is available, and taking action can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.