If you gamble, only you can decide if your gambling is a problem. Some people gamble for the action of the game and the thrill of the win, others use it as a form of escape. If you feel your gambling is causing problems in your life, then you may have a gambling problem.
In order to determine if gambling is causing a problem in your life, you can take the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen. A “yes” answer to any of the questions means the person is at risk for developing a gambling problem.
- During the past 12 months, have you become restless, irritable or anxious when trying to stop/ cut down on gambling?
- During the past 12 months, have you tried to keep your family or friends from knowing how much you gambled?
- During the past 12 months, did you have such financial trouble as a result of your gambling that you had to get help with living expenses from family, friends or welfare?
Some gamblers:
- Go through terrifying experiences before they ask for help
- Feel a little less in control of their lives each time they place a wager, until finally they realize they need help
Asking for help is a sign of strength. It is a sign that you’re no longer willing to gamble on your future.