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Most adult Australians participate in some gambling on a regular basis and according to statistics, 2 to 3% of these meet accepted criteria for pathological gambling. However, the difference between social gambling and pathological gambling is like the difference between social drinking and alcoholism. Like alcoholism, excessive gambling can ruin the life of the gambler as well as the lives of the gambler's family.
People who become pathological gamblers are often highly competitive, energetic, easily bored people. They may be very dependent on the approval of other people. As a result, they may be very generous. More men than women suffer from pathological gambling and are more likely to seek treatment for it. How can you tell when someone you care about may have crossed the line into pathological gambling? Look for several of the following signs: - fails to stop or cut back on gambling
- gets in a bad mood when tries to quit gambling
- tries to make up money lost in gambling, by gambling
- lies to people about how much time is spent gambling
- has committed illegal acts to get money to gamble
- has ruined a relationship, job, or school with gambling and
- tries to get other people to cover financial problems caused by gambling
Pathological gambling is a serious problem which may be accompanied by psychological problems such as depression, suicidal ideation, and drug and alcohol abuse. One in five people in treatment for it has attempted suicide. Your local gambling line can help you or the person you love deal with this problem. G-Line (NSW and ACT) Phone: 1800 633 635 TTY: 1800 633 649 These help line services are provided in every State and Territory in Australia by the Department of Gaming and Racing and the Casino Community Benefits Fund. Article #6714 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
