Problem gambling, unlike alcohol or drug addiction, can be difficult to see. Friends and family members of compulsive gamblers often don't notice a problem until it's too late.
The Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance offers these warning signs that can point to a gambling addiction:
- Increased frequency of gambling activity
- Increased amount of money gambled
- Gambling for longer periods of time than originally planned
- Bragging about wins, but not talking about losses
- Pressuring others for money as financial problems arise
- Lying about how money is spent
- Escaping to other excesses (alcohol, drugs, sleep, etc.)
- Denying there is a problem
