Skip Maine state header navigation

Agencies | Online Services | Help

Skip First Level Navigation | Skip All Navigation

Home > About Us > Projects & Initiatives > Problem Gambling > About Gambling > Problem Gambling: How to Spot the Signs

Problem Gambling: How to Spot the Signs

Would you know a gambling problem if you saw it in a friend, loved one, coworker, patient or student? It’s important to know the signs because 3 percent of the population may have a problem, which puts them and their families at financial and emotional risk.

Here are some warning signs:

  • Preoccupied with gambling and unable to stop
  • Bragging about gambling, exaggerating
    wins and minimizing losses
  • Restless and irritable when not gambling
  • Gambling to win back what you’ve lost
  • Borrowing money for gambling
  • Lying to hide time spent gambling or
    unpaid debts
  • Frequent unexplained absences
  • Losing work time because of gambling
  • Doing something illegal to get money for
    gambling
  • Jeopardizing a significant relationship or
    job by gambling

Keep it in Perspective

Problem gambling is not a bad habit or a moral weakness. It is a serious condition, but with treatment,
problem gamblers can put the game in perspective and make decisions to improve their lives.

If playing isn’t fun anymore, call for help.
National Problem Gambling HelpLine:
Free. Confidential.
24 hours a day.
7 days a week.
1-800-522-4700

 

Content from the National Problem Gambling Awareness week. org