Signs of Gambling Addiction

Contributor

By Stephanie Mojica
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (0 Ratings)

Some people can be addicted to gambling as much as others are addicted to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, or risky sex. There is treatment for gambling addiction or compulsive gambling through therapy and self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous. There are a number of signs that indicate someone possibly has a gambling addiction.

Defensive Behavior

If you or a loved one has become increasingly defensive about your gambling habits, there may be an addiction involved, according to Helpguide.org.

Money Problems

Borrowing a lot of money, gambling when there is no money to do so, and pawning items are all signs of compulsive gambling.

Secretive Behavior

Secretive behavior--such as a sudden desire to be the only person handling credit card bills--or items disappearing from the home could indicate a gambling addiction.

Lying

If you find yourself lying to friends and family about how often you gamble or how much money you have lost in gaming, you could be addicted, according to Helpguide.org.

Loss of Control

The inability to walk away from a game, even when all the money is gone, and obsession with a "big win" indicates a loss of control and possible compulsive gambling.