Signs of Addiction to Gambling
The more you regularly rely on something external to lift you up, relax you, or help you feel better, the closer you move toward addiction. If you decide you are on the path to addiction, you can take action to change your behavior and find caring people to help you.
Check Your Addiction Level
Perhaps you think gambling is a quick thrill, an adventure. You think it’s a way to be a winner. Sure, you may win. But more likely, excessive gambling can cause you to lose all you’ve worked for. Read the following statements and check “yes” or “no.” Answering “yes” to three or more questions may be a signal that gambling is taking over your life.
Yes | No | |
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| When you gamble, do you think you’re just making an investment in your future? |
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| Do you feel stimulated and “alive” while gambling? |
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| Do you think that if you keep gambling, you’ll get lucky? |
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| Do you continue to gamble even though you lose more than you win? |
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| Have you ever sold any of your possessions to pay off gambling debts? |
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| Have you borrowed money from friends to pay off gambling debts? |
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| Do you try to hide your gambling from family members or friends? |
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| Do you find it hard to sleep because you’re in debt? |
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| Is the financial safety of your family threatened because your gambling has put you into debt? |
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| Have you been feeling increasingly anxious and worried about your gambling? |