Some people may turn to theft or fraud to get gambling money.
But people with a compulsive gambling problem are compelled to keep playing to recover their money - a pattern that becomes increasingly destructive over time. Most casual gamblers stop when losing or set a limit on how much they're willing to lose. Asking others to bail you out of financial trouble because you gambled money away.Risking or losing important relationships, a job, or school or work opportunities because of gambling.Lying to family members or others to hide the extent of your gambling.Trying to get back lost money by gambling more (chasing losses).Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression.Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down on gambling.Trying to control, cut back or stop gambling, without success.Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill.Being preoccupied with gambling, such as constantly planning gambling activities and how to get more gambling money.Signs and symptoms of compulsive gambling (gambling disorder) can include:
