Responsible Gaming > Problem Gambling

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. See below for some of those warning signs:

Preoccupied with gambling and unable to stop.

Restless and irritable when not gaming.

Borrowing money for gambling.

Frequent unexplained job absences.

Bragging about gambling, exaggerating wins and minimizing losses.

Gambling to win back what was lost.

Lying to hide time spent gambling or hiding unpaid debts.

HOW TO REACH OUT TO A FRIEND OR RELATIVE WHO DISPLAYS SIGNS OF PROBLEM GAMBLING

Find a comfortable place to talk where you won't be disturbed.

Keep it simple and straightforward.

Tell the person you care about them, and you're concerned about how they are acting.

Tell the person exactly what they've done that concerns you.

Tell the person how their behavior is affecting other people - be specific.

Be clear about what you expect from them ("I want you to talk to someone about your gambling"), and what they can expect from you, ("I won't cover for you anymore").

After you've told the person what you've seen and how you feel, allow them to respond.

Listen with a non-judgmental attitude.

Let the person know you are willing to help, but don't try to counsel them yourself.

Give the person information, not advice.

Encourage the person to contact wi-problemgamblers.org. Its free and confidential.

If you are the spouse, family member, or friend of a problem gambler, it is important for you to take care of yourself and realize that you are not responsible for the gambler's behavior.

A problem gambler doesn't necessarily need to "hit bottom" to decide to get help. 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, contact for help
Problem Gambling Helpline:
1-800-GAMBLE-5 (1-800-426-2535)
Text 1-850-888-HOPE (4673)
www.wi-problemgamblers.org
Free. Confidential. Always there.