The issue of problem gambling is not a new issue however since 2018 rates of problem gambling have significantly increased in recent years due to two factors such as, the rapid expansion of legalized online sports betting and the heightened stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article will focus on problem gambling, ways to recognize when it’s a problem and ways to get help or support if you or someone you know, may be struggling with a problem.
With so many outlets for gambling it’s no wonder that it can become problematic and even addictive for some individuals. From scratch offs, lottery tickets, fantasy leagues, casinos, horse racing, sporting events squares and many more there are seemingly endless opportunities and temptations to gamble. There can also be a peak in gambling and fantasy leagues related to sports seasons (i.e. football, basketball, etc.). Betting pools and fantasy leagues can be big temptations to gamble, however there can be consequences related to this.
Consequences for problem gambling can occur on multiple levels. Some of which can occur in emotional, social, psychological and financial areas of a person’s life. Consequences can include but are not limited to:
- Deterioration of relationships
- Financial loss/debt
- Depression
- Suicide
- Job loss
- Lower work productivity
- Crime
- Bankruptcy
Just as with any addiction there are risk factors that can predispose individuals to problem gambling. When considering risk factors it’s important to keep in mind that risk factors can be both environmental and biological. Some risk factors for problem gambling can include but are not limited to:
- Family history of problem gambling / addiction
- Other addictive behaviors
- Financial insecurity / poverty
- The easy access and availability of betting / gambling
- Inaccurate / flawed thought patterns
- Impulse control disorders
- Personal experiences
Knowing the warning signs of problem gambling is an important component of getting yourself or someone else help. When there is awareness of problematic behavior it opens the door for a person to receive help. Below is a list of some, but not all warning signs of problem gambling:
- Lying to family, friends, partners or loved ones
- Irritability / hostility when trying to cut back on behaviors
- Chasing losses / trying to win back money lost
- Staying out late / going out often
- Stealing money
Now that we know some background information on problem gambling to help recognize when it has become problematic, we will discuss ways to get help and how to support someone who may be struggling. There are self-help groups including Gamblers Anonymous which can serve as a social support group for those struggling. Self-exclusion is a self-help strategy in which an individual can ban themselves from online or in person gambling for a set period of time. Other resources can be accessed through the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center which offers services in various counties throughout northeastern New York. When treating problem gambling obtaining a mental health and / or substance abuse evaluation can be helpful to rule in / out co-occurring disorders that may be contributing to the problem gambling issue.
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling our counselors at EAP are ready to help and guide on this journey. Problem gambling is not an issue that needs to be faced alone and having support in this journey can be invaluable. You can reach out to us at 518-465-3813 to connect with our intake team, who can help you set up an appointment.
By, Meryl Tremblay, LMSW, EAP Counselor