About Gambling
Compulsive gambling is a progressive illness which is diagnosable and treatable. It affects the gambler, the family, the employer, and the community.
It is called the "hidden illness" since there is no smell on the breath nor stumbling of steps or speech. Nonetheless, a gambling addiction is as debilitating as alcohol or drug addiction.
Signs & Symptoms
Indicators of Compulsive Gambling
· How much time is spent gambling
· Increase in gambling time and places
· Increase in size of bets
(sudden and dramatic)
· Working up special occasions for gambling (canceling other plans)
· Intensity of interest in gambling
(constant tension & excitement)
· Boasting about winning; evasive about losing
· Exaggerated display of money and other possessions
· Gambling when there is a crisis
· Drop off in other activities
· Frequent absences from home and work
· Excessive phone use
· Withdrawal from family
· Personality changes (increased irritability/hostility)
· Diversion of family funds
*adapted from When Luck Runs Out by Robert Custer, M.D.