Signs of a problem gambler

For most people, gambling is a pleasant diversion. But for some, gambling becomes an addiction. Not sure if it's a problem for you? The Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling offers a list of signs that someone might need help.

A problem gambler:

• Is preoccupied with gambling (e.g., preoccupied with reliving past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, or thinking of ways to get money with which to gamble).
  

• Needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement or escape.

• Gambles longer than planned.

• Has repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop gambling.

• Is restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.

• Gambles as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression or to escape physical pain.

• Often returns to get even ("chasing" one's losses) after losing money gambling.

• Lies to family members, therapist or others to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling. May include lying by omission.

• Relies on others to provide money to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling.

• Borrows from friends and family and often lies about the true cause of the financial crisis.

• Refinances mortgages or loans; cashes in life insurance, CDs, 401(k)s.

• Commits illegal acts such as forgery, fraud, theft or embezzlement to finance gambling.

• Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job or educational or career opportunity because of gambling.

• Increases amount of time spent gambling.

• Feels shame, guilt and remorse after gambling.

• Becomes manipulative and controlling.

• Makes excuses about whereabouts. Poorly explained absences from home and work.

• Loses interest in regular activities, hobbies.

• Gambles when there is a crisis.

• Gambles to celebrate good fortune.

• Withdraws from family and friends.

• Changes in personality: Angry; irritable; critical; sarcastic; depressed; argumentative

• Denies gambling is a problem and will not discuss it even when confronted.

• Gambles on holidays and special occasions.

• Uses gambling to cope when life seems overwhelming.

• Brags and lies about winnings and evasive about losses

• Lying becomes a way of life.

• Gambles alone

• Selects favorite machine (slot or video poker, kino)

• Loses a sense of the value of money as currency and sees it only as a way to play longer.