HFM Prevention Council

In general, gambling is seen as a social activity and not recognized as a potential addiction.  Many times gambling does not pose a problem in a person's daily life.  However, for half a million adults and approximately 10% of youth in New York State, gambling disrupts their personal and work lives, affects their finances and leads to a need for treatment.

Problem gamblers dedicate more time, thoughts and money toward gambling.  Problem gambling affects all aspects of a gambler's life -- family, job, hobbies, finances, etc.  According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, one in five problem gmblers have attempted suicide.  Problem gamblers have the highest rate of suicide among addictions.  Approximately three quarters of all problem gamblers have symptoms of depression.  Many problem gamblers resort to crime to repay their debts.  These crimes are usually non-violent, including tax evasion, forgery and burglary.  On the flip side, approximately 50% of spouses of problem gambers have been a victim of domestic violence.

Like any addictive behavior,  there are often clear symptoms of a developing problem.  Individually, these symptoms may not indicate a gambling problem, but if an individual exhibits several, there is cause for concern.

-unexplained need for money

-money or possessions missing from the home,

-unexplained charges on credit card bills,

-withdrawal from friends and family

-missing school or work

-frequent anxiety, depression or mood swings

-dropping of outside activities and interests

-continuing to gamble despite consequences

-gambling as a way to escape worries