Symptoms of a gambling disorder may not be overt; however, significant stress, clinical depression, secondhand smoke exposure and a sedentary lifestyle are often factors, in addition to co-occurring tobacco, alcohol, or chemical addictions. It is important for health care professionals to understand what questions to ask and what characteristics to look for to diagnose a gambling disorder. To help assess whether an individual may have a gambling problem, be aware of the following warning signs:
- Gambling longer than planned
- Gambling until the last dollar is gone
- Thoughts of gambling preoccupy daily life
- Bills begin to go unpaid
- Attempts to stop gambling are unsuccessful
- Criminal activity to fuel gambling
- Borrowing money from friends and family
- Feelings of depression or suicide after losing
- Feelings of remorse after gambling
- Gambling to meet financial obligations
If your patient may have a gambling problem, consider referring them to a qualified treatment provider, or visit our resources page to have materials sent right to you.