Problem Gambling
Did you know that you can be destructively obsessed with gambling? Research has shown behaviours such as gambling can create dramatic mood altering chemical changes in our brain. As a result, gambling disorder is now considered a devastating compulsion like drugs and alcohol. Approximately 4-5% of gamblers develop this problem and it can create overwhelming consequences for the gambler and their loved ones. Due to the crippling debt and emotional scars, the suicide rates of compulsive gamblers are quite high. In treatment populations, about half of those with gambling disorder have suicidal ideation, and about 18% have attempted suicide.
Many terms have been used to describe this illness and include problem gambling, excessive gambling, compulsive gambling, and pathological gambling. Problematic gambling is based on a continuum where individuals invest more TIME, MONEY, and ENERGY over a period of time. As tolerance increases so does the need to invest more of oneself to achieve the desired effect. Gamblers may experience periodic wins along the continuum creating the fallacy that they are not on a continuous downward progression.
Do I have a problem?
Gambling is a powerful and legitimate compulsion that can spiral out of control before people recognize it as a problem. Be informed and find out more about the symptoms.
Problem Gambling Survey
Is your gambling something to be concerned about? This quick and easy survey builds awareness about your gambling behaviours, beliefs and decisions.
Gambling Affected
Feeling lost and fearful of how someone else’s gambling is impacting your life? There are free and confidential services that empower you to take back control of your emotions, finances, and life.
Social Costs of Problem Gambling
Gambling is considered one of the most costly compulsions to society. Problem gambling impacts the workplace, legal system, and our economy.
“Gambling didn't just take away financial freedom. It took away relationships, opportunities and most importantly happiness"