Help for the Person with Problem Gambling
THE HIDDEN ADDICTION
Gambling Disorder Help. Some people refer to disordered gambling as the “hidden addiction.” Unlike individuals that struggle with substance use disorders, persons with problem gambling often show no obvious physical signs or symptoms. On top of that, they may refuse to seek help due to shame or fear of judgment. Some people might not be able to admit to themselves that they have a gambling problem–even after they have lost all their savings due to excessive gambling.
WHAT IS SELF-EXCLUSION?
Maryland Lottery and Gaming operates voluntary exclusion programs for people who wish to ban themselves from Maryland casinos, the Maryland Lottery, electronic instant bingo halls, sports wagering, or daily fantasy sports. Voluntary exclusion is one of numerous self-help tools, but it is not intended to be a substitute for assessment and treatment by a problem gambling counselor. Counseling services are available at no cost for Maryland residents by contacting the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling. Follow this link to apply:
Advocacy. Awareness. Assistance.
YOUR RECOVERY CAN BEGIIN RIGHT NOW!
Call or text.
WHAT IS PROBLEM GAMBLING?
Problem Gambling definition (National Council on Problem Gambling): Any gambling behavior that causes disruptions in any major life area–psychological, physical, social, or vocational.
WHAT ARE SOME WARNING SIGNS? IS IT SOMEONE YOU KNOW?
✓ Preoccupied with gambling
✓ Secretive about his/her gambling habits, and defensive when confronted
✓ Increasing bet amounts when gambling in order to achieve the desired excitement (“high”)
✓ Trying unsuccessfully to control, cut back or stop gambling
✓ Restless or irritable when not gambling
✓ Gambling when distressed (helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed).
✓ “Chasing” losses with more gambling
✓ Lying to family and others about the extent of gambling
✓ Jeopardizing or losing relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities because of gambling
✓ Relying on others to bail him or her out relieve money problems caused by gambling
The good news is if you or someone you know is showing any of the signs of behavior above, HELP IS AVAILABLE. Call our free hotline now at 1-800-GAMBLER to be directed to resources in your area.
FAQs
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Problem gambling (sometimes referred to as “gambling addiction” or “gambling disorder”) is gambling behavior that is damaging to a person or their family, often disrupting their daily life and career. Anyone who gambles can be at risk for developing a gambling problem. Gambling disorder is a recognized mental health diagnosis.
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No. Problem gambling is an emotional problem that has financial and other consequences. Even if the person pays off their gambling debts, they can still have other problems caused by gambling. The only way to overcome problem gambling is to change harmful gambling habits, and social support and encouragement are a crucial part of that change.
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The amount of money lost or won does not determine when gambling becomes problematic. While gambling can cause financial problems, it is not the only warning sign of a gambling problem. When gambling is interfering with an individual’s relationships, job, mental or physical health or any other area of life it is a problematic behavior.
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Problem gambling does not discriminate and can impact anyone who gambles regardless of economic, social, cultural or levels of education. Anyone who gambles can develop a gambling problem. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a gambling addiction, genetics, environment, medical history and age may all play a role.
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Children and teens are at higher risk than adults for developing a gambling problem. Additionally, individuals who start gambling at a young age are also more likely to develop a gambling addiction later in life.