Most people gamble for fun and recreation, but some can develop a problem without even recognizing it. Gambling becomes a problem when the strong urge to gamble occurs despite the negative impact on a person’s life. A gambling disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with gambling and failed efforts to cut back, taking increasingly bigger gambling risks, continually chasing bets, hiding gambling behavior, borrowing money or stealing to gamble, and taking time away from work or family life to gamble.
Early recognition, intervention and treatment of problems with gambling can reduce the physical and emotional effects of stress, improve self-esteem and coping skills, decrease lost work time and financial strain, and restore family relationships. If you or a loved one shows warning signs of problem gambling, seek help today.
Most people gamble for fun and recreation, but some can develop a problem without even recognizing it. Gambling becomes a problem when the strong urge to gamble occurs despite the negative impact on a person’s life. A gambling disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with gambling and failed efforts to cut back, taking increasingly bigger gambling risks, continually chasing bets, hiding gambling behavior, borrowing money or stealing to gamble, and taking time away from work or family life to gamble.
Early recognition, intervention and treatment of problems with gambling can reduce the physical and emotional effects of stress, improve self-esteem and coping skills, decrease lost work time and financial strain, and restore family relationships. If you or a loved one shows warning signs of problem gambling, seek help today.