One of the myths of gambling disorder is that someone that gambles frequently is “addicted” to gambling. The fact is that the gambling itself is not an indication of an addiction. It is only when gambling is causing problems in the gambler’s life that an addiction may be indicated.

Gambling addiction is an impulse-control disorder. Those who are addicted can’t keep themselves from gambling even when it is causing pain to themselves or those around them.

Some of the behaviors indicative of a gambling disorder include:

Lying

Deceiving loved ones, family, friends, co-workers, and even counselors, social support workers and financial institutions, to hide their gambling and the impact of gambling in their lives.

Preoccupation

The individual is preoccupied and constantly thinking about with gambling

Loss of Control

The individual is unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite efforts to try.

Tolerance to gambling stimulus

Needing to gamble more, taking greater risks, and with greater amounts of money to feel the same “high.”

Withdrawal

Getting angry, short-tempered, nervous and distracted when unable to gamble.

Avoidance

Uses gambles to offset and distract themselves from feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression or other negative feelings.

Chasing

Gambling more to offset losses from previous gambling. Often referred to as “chasing one’s losses.”

Theft

Willing to steal, commit forgery and fraud, embezzle and other illegal acts to finance continued gambling

Relationship problems

Putting personal relationships, even with close loved ones and family, as risk; losing a job, dropping out of school

Bailout

Seeking financial assistance from friends, family and co-workers and relying on others to cover debt and deepening financial problems.