There's only a fine line that separates us from the effects of problem gambling. Here are some warning signs you can look out for in order to get appropriate help.
- Increasing preoccupation with gambling
- A need to bet more money, and more frequently
- Restlessness or irritability when attempting to reduce or stop gambling
- Chasing losses
- A loss of control
- Continuation of gambling behaviour despite mounting negative consequences
- Looking for the "high" that comes from gambling
- Increasing isolation from family and friends
- Declining work performance
- Neglecting basic needs like money for food and rent
- Pressuring others for money as financial problems crop up
- Lying about how money is spent
- Escaping to other excesses (alcohol, drugs, sleep)
- Denying there is a problem
- (With extracts from NAMS newsletter "Recovery Times")
