Over 70% of us adults report gambling at least one time in the past year

“In a given year, approximately 3 million U.S. adults meet criteria for pathological gambling”

“Suicide rates of gamblers is 11 times higher than any other addiction.”

“At highest risk for severe gambling problems: elderly and teens.”

“Bankruptcy claims are on the rise due to gambling.”

Compulsive gambling is defined as a chronic and progressive disorder that
involves a dependency on gambling to the exclusion of important life responsibilities,
including family, health, and job.

Types of Gamblers

Definitions

Gambling: Any betting or wagering for self or others, whether for money or not,
no matter how slight or insignificant, where the outcome is uncertain or depends
upon chance or “skill,” constitutes gambling.

Problem Gambling: An involvement in risky gambling behaviors that adversely
affects the individual’s well being, this may include issues of: relationships,
family, financial standings, social matters and vocational pursuits. (Source:
Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc. 1995)

Compulsive Pathological Gambling: A progressive disorder characterized by a
continuous or periodic loss of control over gambling; a preoccupation with
gambling and with obtaining money with which to gamble; irrational thinking; and
a continuation of the behavior despite adverse consequences. (Source: Dr.
Richard Rosenthal, Psychiatric Annals, February 1992.)

Gamblers Anonymous 20 Questions

This quiz may help you determine if you should seek assistance for a possible
gambling problem.

(Most compulsive gamblers will answer yes to at least seven {7} of these questions.)

Profile of Compulsive Gamblers

Gambling Habits

Financial and Legal Problems:

This disorder extends across socioeconomic classes. Women can be just as
vulnerable as men to crossing the line from recreational to compulsive gambling. With
the gambler masked in denial, a supervisor, friend, or family member may spot the
problem first.