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Helping Yourself

How Do I Know if I have a Gambling Problem?

Many people who gamble occasionally are able to control the amount of time and money they spend. For them, gambling can be a harmless form of recreation.

Other people have trouble controlling their gambling, and it causes problems in their lives. Sometimes people don't realize that their gambling is getting out of hand until problems become too big to ignore.

Look through this list of warning signs that gambling is becoming a problem. If you recognize any of these, you might want to get some help.

10 Warning Signs That You Might Have a Gambling Problem.



You may have a problem with gambling if you:
  • spend more time or money on gambling than you can afford or had planned
  • borrow money to gamble
  • gamble with money meant for essentials, such as food, rent, etc.
  • neglect important responsibilities, such as work, school or family, to gamble
  • lie about or cover up the extent of your gambling
  • chase your losses to try and get your money back
  • argue with your friends and family, especially about money issues
  • have unpaid bills and increasing debts due to your gambling
  • feel regret about your gambling behavior
  • think about gambling a lot

If any of these things have happened to you, check out AFM's confidential and free
24-Hour Problem Gambling Helpline:
1-800-463-1554 toll free.

For more information...

Check out "Counselling and Rehabilitation" to see the help available for people who are having problems with their gambling.

Check out "Family and Friends of Problem Gamblers" if someone you know has any of these signs.

Check out "Responsible Gaming Information Centre" for tips on how to stay safe if you choose to gamble.

Check out "What You Need to Know about Gambling" to see how VLTs and slots really work.

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