Home Asian Services FAQs Problem gambling Help for Families Resources

ln3

spacer

Signs of Problem Gambling

Are You Experiencing a Problem With Your Gambling?

Many people consider gambling a harmless recreational activity. And, for many people, it is. However, for some individuals gambling leads to serious problems, with social, financial and emotional costs that affect their lives and the lives of their loved ones. If you are concerned about the impact gambling is having on your life, contact us . . . We understand the problem. We can help.

Unlike alcohol or other drug abuse where those under the influence may appear intoxicated or "high", problem gamblers usually do not exhibit easily recognizable signs. However, there are signs that may indicate someone is experiencing a gambling problem.

According to the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), the following are often signs of problem gambling:

  • The person gambles more than they intended
  • Other people are suggesting that the person might have a gambling problem
  • The person is feeling guilty about the way he or she gambles
  • The person wants to stop betting money and feels like they can’t
  • The person gambling is hiding betting slips, lottery tickets, gambling money or other signs of betting
  • There are arguments over how the person gambling is handling money
  • The person gambling is borrowing money and not repaying it
  • The person gambling is losing time from work or school due to betting money or gambling
The three screening tools used most often to identify gambling problems are: the Massachusetts Gambling Screen (MAGS), the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).

For more information, please contact the Council –
English Helpline: 800-426-1234
Chinese Helpline: 857-383-3557,
Vietnamese Helpline: 857-383-3567, or
Khmer Helpline: 857-383-3577.