Definitions
Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: Psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term “Problem Gambling” includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as “Pathological” or “Compulsive” Gambling, a progressive addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, “chasing” losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences, as defined by the National Council on Problem Gambling.
Pathological gambling is an Impulse Control Disorder classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) that is characterized by persistent and recurrent maladaptive gambling behaviors which include a continuous or periodic loss of control over gambling, a preoccupation with gambling and with obtaining money with which to gamble, irrational thinking and a continuation of the behavior despite adverse consequences. For an individual to be diagnosed as a pathological gambler, they must have five or more characteristics.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you or someone you know answers yes to any of the following scenarios, they may have a gambling problem. Please call 1-877-8HOPENY for help.
* thinks constantly about gambling
* increases bets to sustain the thrill
* exhibits agitation when cutting back
* gambles as an escape
* “chases” losses with more gambling
* lies to conceal their gambling activity
* finances bets through illegal acts
* jeopardizes significant relationships with family and friends
* relies on others to bail them out
* fails in their efforts to control or stop gambling
Harmful Effects of Problem Gambling
* Children of problem gamblers are often victims of abuse and neglect as a result of parental problem gambling.
* Research shows teens whose parents gamble too much have higher rates of problem gambling.
* Studies show that as much as 50 percent of spouses of problem gamblers have been abused.
* Problem gamblers have the highest rate of suicide of any other addiction. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, one in five problem gamblers have attempted suicide.
* A major depressive disorder is likely to occur in 76 percent of problem gamblers.
* Problem gamblers often resort to crime in order to pay debts, maintain appearances or continue to gamble. These are mostly non-violent crimes such as check forgery, stealing credit cards, employee theft, fraud, and tax evasion.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem,
HELP is available statewide,
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call toll free 1-877-8HOPENY (1-877-846-7369).
The above information is an excerpt from an article entitled NYS Services for Problem Gambling by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS). The full article can be found here.