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?

The Four Phases of Escape Gambling

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.

Gamblers Anonymous 20 Questions

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

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.