Today, problem gambling is the number one topic in the Canadian gambling industry. Therefore, timely information and identifying addiction and other problems play an important role. This page reveals the first and most dangerous signs that should cause concern. Be sure you are familiar with the principles of responsible gambling before you start playing at the casino.
Problem Gambling Highlights
Many people think that problems with gambling are mainly financial in nature. However, this is not the case. Addiction to casino games and other gambling-related problems harm all aspects of a player’s life. Gambling is considered a problem if it:
- distract a person from the study, work or any other important activity;
- negatively affect the physical and mental state of a person;
- caused financial problems;
- and also cause problems in communication with relatives, friends and employees.
It is not easy to single out a group of people who have problems with casino games more often, who have fewer problems. These are people of all ages, cultures, professions and incomes. Yet, for some players, addiction and issues appear more acutely. For some, the signs are almost unrecognizable. Many manage to cope with the problem on their own, while some need serious help from specialists.
Symptoms of Possible Addiction
In many ways, the symptoms of gambling addiction are similar to those of any other kind of addiction. However, it is impossible to say that certain signs accurately guarantee an addiction. Still, it is worth highlighting some changes in the behaviour of the player, his emotional and physical health, as well as financial condition.
Changes in Behaviour
The following behavioural factors may indicate a problem if players:
- gave up an occupation that used to please them;
- do not come to family and other important events in their lives;
- dramatically changed the mode of sleep, eating and other vital activities;
- stopped caring for themselves, do not go to work or school, do not perform family duties;
- ruined relationships with friends because of debts;
- began to drink alcohol, smoke or use drugs;
- leave their minor children unattended and takes less care of them;
- want to play all the time;
- ready to spend money only on casino games;
- lie to relatives and friends to lure out money for games;
- often disappear for a long time.
Changes in Emotional State
The following symptoms in a person’s emotional health should be of deep concern if they:
- move away from family and spends less time with friends;
- constantly worry and seem disturbed;
- experiencing emotional surges and sudden outbursts of rage;
- seem upset and even has suicidal tendencies.
Financial Signs of Gambling Problems
A person who has problems with casino games:
- often asks for advances at work or takes loans;
- gets an additional job, but this does not fill the budget;
- withdraws money from savings accounts, does not cover insurance on time;
- experiences sharp financial ups and downs;
- family members notice the disappearance of valuables and money from the family budget.
Changes in Physical Health
A player who suffers from addiction often complains about:
- severe headaches;
- problems in the work of the gastrointestinal tract;
- sleep problems;
- loss of appetite or vice versa overeating.
Problems with Gambling: Risk Factors
As for the true causes of problems with casino games and the development of addiction among players, they are very diverse. For example, some people prefer to relax this way and sometimes stop noticing how much time they spend playing. Many are trying to recover losses and win back, so they return to the casino site again and again. Finally, some players take pride in their victories.
In other words, a number of factors contribute to addiction and gambling problems or make them difficult to resolve. A player is at greater risk if they:
- Previously, have already experienced a big win.
- Have round-the-clock and uninterrupted access to gambling games.
- Cannot realistically assess their chances of winning.
- Do not track the amount of winnings and money lost in the casino.
- Recently experienced a dramatic change in life or the loss of a loved one.
- Often feel lonely.
- Often suffer from some psychological disorders, including anxiety and depression.
Rapid Preventive Measures
Not to be at risk, you should always adhere to the rules of responsible gambling.
- Treat gambling as a way to have fun only.
- Always set a limit on the amount you can afford to spend at the casino.
- Limit the time spent playing online games.
- Never give preference to gambling, choosing between spending time with family and loved ones or at the casino site.
- If you experience any of the above symptoms in yourself or your loved ones, seek appropriate help.
Where Can I Get Help?
Today in Canada, many organizations help to cope with gambling addiction and overcome all the problems associated with casino games. If you were unable to cope with the problem on your own, you can always call the hotline or contact the specialists of the following organizations in the online chat:
- Responsible Gambling Council
- Canada Safety Council
- National Council on Problem Gambling.