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What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is any gambling, betting or wagering that causes family, financial, legal, emotional or other problems for the individual, their family or others. Gambling problems can be mild, or quite severe, and can worsen over time.

Often recognized by the term “gambling disorder”, and previously known as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling, Gambling Disorder is now classified in the “Addiction and Related Disorders” category in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fifth edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association. This disorder is identified as a persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior that has lead to clinically significant impairment or distress.

While millions of Americans, and hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians experiencing gambling related problems, it is important to know that help is available.

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Many people do not want to talk about their inability to get hold of their gambling addiction. At the same time, most of us are unsure how to recognized it in ourselves or others. Problem gambling is often referred to as the 'hidden addiction' due to the lack of physical symptoms.  That doesn't mean that you can't identify someone who is struggling with this issue. Common signs of problem gambling include:

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  • Increasing preoccupation with gambling

  • Gambling more frequently or for longer than intended

  • Defensiveness

  • Unexplained temper / Irritability

  • Sudden mood swings

  • Using gambling to cope with stress/pressure

  • Anxiety / Depression

  • Lying about where money goes

  • Unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling

  • Distraction / Declining work or school performance

  • Distancing or isolating from family or friends

  • Unexplained absences from work/school

  • Withdrawal from family/friends

  • Chasing losses, or returning the next day to win back what was lost

  • Committing/considering committing a crime to finance gambling

  • Unable to pay bills or cover expenses

  • Borrowing money in order to gamble

  • Increase Debt / Financial issues

Brief screening tool to help you determine if you may be struggling with problem gambling behaviors

Gamblers Anonymous Screening Tool

Do you think you might be living with someone who is battling gambling addiction? Answer these questions and find out more.

Screening Tool for loved ones

How can I get help?

If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction behaviors, there are many options for you reach out for assistance. 

Call1-800-GAMBLER    /    Text 717-216-0905   /   Chat via pa.gov/gethelp 

Self Exclusion: YOU have the ability to prevent yourself from participating in gambling activities? viit the PA Gaming Control Board website for further information and taking the next steps.
https://responsibleplay.pa.gov/self-exclusion/

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