How do you know if you’re a compulsive gambler? Ask yourself these questions and then call us for an initial consultation:

1. Do I ever feel remorse after gambling?
2. Do I ever gamble to get money for paying debts or to otherwise solve financial difficulties?
3. After losing, do I feel I must return as soon as possible and win back my losses?
4. After I win, do I have a strong urge to return and win more?
5. Do I often gamble until my last dollar is gone?
6. Am I reluctant to use “gambling money” for normal expenditures?
7. Do I ever gamble longer than I planned?
8. Have I ever committed, or considered committing, an illegal act to finance my gambling?
9. Do arguments, disappointments or frustrations create within me an urge to gamble?
10. Do I ever consider self-destruction as a result of my gambling?

Compulsive gamblers normally experience three phases:

Winning
The winning phase is characterized by occasional gambling with excitement prior to and during gambling. Gambling becomes more frequent with increased amounts bet because of unreasonable optimism. An early big win is often the fuel that propels the illness in pursuit of “the action.”

Losing
The losing phase happens as gambling continues and the losses mount forcing the gambler to hide his gambling from others. Frequent loans from family, banks, credit cards and employers may be necessary during this phase. The gambler may go through personality changes - being irritable, restless and withdrawn.

Desperation
In the desperation phase, the gambler becomes obsessed with gambling to cover debts and spends increased time and money on gambling. Increased blaming of problems on others results in desperate attempts to get out from under the weight of the debt. When all attempts fail, the gambler may contemplate or attempt suicide as a way out.