Problem Gambling Help Line

 

What is gambling?

Any time you bet money or something of value on an event of uncertain outcome, you are gambling. This includes raffles, lotteries, bingo and sports events.

What is problem gambling?

Gambling is a problem when it adversely affects: relationships, family, friends; physical, social and mental health; employment; or finances.

Who is at risk?

The following are some signs that a person may have a gambling problem:

  • Gambling for longer periods of time—spending long or increasing amounts of time at gambling venues
  • Pre-occupation with gambling—constantly thinking about and preparing for gambling
  • "Chasing losses"—gambling more often and playing higher stakes to "win back" lost money
  • Frequent, unexplained absences—from home or work and undue secrecy
  • Gambling to escape from obligations or life's daily pressures
  • Growing debt from gambling—lying or criminal activity to finance gambling
  • Neglecting family/personal needs—e.g., nutrition, sleep, schooling or general well-being

 

Common misconceptions about gambling

Gambling is often regarded with a sense of mystique. Many people believe they can "win big" over time. The following are some common misconceptions about gambling:

  • Gambling is an easy way to make money
  • Gambling is the solution to my problems
  • I believe I can beat the odds
  • Borrowing to gamble is okay
  • I can always win it back I am a lucky person
  • This machine is ready for a large payoff
  • If you flip a coin and it comes up "heads" several times in a row, the next time it is more likely to come up "tails"
  • My lottery number is bound to come up if I play it consistently
  • I don't have a gambling problem, it's a financial problem
  • Gambling is a safe way to escape from my problems

 


Tips for responsible gambling

For many people gambling is exciting and entertaining. They make careful decisions about spending time and money, where to go and how to have fun.

The following are some ways people gamble responsibly:

  • Gamble for entertainment, not as a way to make money
  • Balance gambling with other leisure activities
  • Only use discretionary income, not money for everyday expenses
  • Set a budget and stick to it
  • Don't borrow money to gamble
  • Set a time limit
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Be aware—risk increases at times of loss or depression

 

 

Gamblers Anonymous offers the following 20 questions to anyone who may have a gambling problem. These questions are provided to help the individual decide if he or she is a compulsive gambler and wants to stop gambling.

 

Responses to this screen are for your reference only.

 

  1. Did you ever lose time from work or school due to gambling?
  2. Has gambling ever made your home life unhappy?
  3. Did gambling affect your reputation?
  4. Have you ever felt remorse after gambling?
  5. Did you ever gamble to get money with which to pay debts or otherwise solve financial difficulties?
  6. Did gambling cause a decrease in your ambition or efficiency?
  7. After losing did you feel you must return as soon as possible and win back your losses?
  8. After a win did you have a strong urge to return and win more?
  9. Did you often gamble until your last dollar was gone?
  10. Did you ever borrow to finance your gambling?
  11. Have you ever sold anything to finance gambling?
  12. Were you reluctant to use "gambling money" for normal expenditures?
  13. Did gambling make you careless of the welfare of yourself or your family?
  14. Did you ever gamble longer than you had planned?
  15. Have you ever gambled to escape worry or trouble?
  16. Have you ever committed, or considered committing, an illegal act to finance gambling?
  17. Did gambling cause you to have difficulty in sleeping?
  18. Do arguments, disappointments or frustrations create within you an urge to gamble?
  19. Did you ever have an urge to celebrate any good fortune by a few hours of gambling?
  20. Have you ever considered self destruction or suicide as a result of your gambling?

Most compulsive gamblers will answer yes to at least seven of these questions.

 

What can you do?

If you think you have a problem or know someone who does, there are many qualified people you can call. We can help you with more information or refer you to the right person for help in your area.

How to Access the Problem Gambling Help Line

1-888-347-8888

TDD 1-888-347-3331 (hearing impaired)