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Entity advises on how to spot a gambling addiction.

What do you do when a loved one is addicted to gambling? Visiting the casino on vacation often does not lead to gambling addictions, but constantly hitting the slots can lead to many life and health problems.

If you’re a concerned friend, family member or significant other, you may be worried about someone you care about having a gambling addiction. Here are five ways to spot a gambling problem and how you can help.

1 If They Need to Gamble.

Gambling starts to become a problem when someone believes he or she must gamble to make money. Although there are many other avenues to make money, those with a gambling problem will go straight to the slots to make their money problems go away.

According to the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling, the addiction will likely lead to the tendency to steadily increase the amounts of money they are betting to make up for any losses. When they run out of funds, they will ask – and often expect – family and friends to relieve them from financial distress with monetary loans or gifts.

2 If They Lie About How Much They’re Gambling.

Some people actually may start to subconsciously realize they have a problem, but they just can’t help themselves. They may lie about how many times they’ve gone to the casino or how much money they’ve lost because they know you won’t like the truth.

Because of their tendency to lie, they may sabotage or ruin a significant relationship. They may disappear for hours or days at a time with a fib about where they’ve been. Plus, the temptation to steal from the ones closest to them is strong – even if the person is usually an honest individual, the addiction can take over moral judgment.

3 If They Keep Gambling, No Matter What.

Along with the need to gamble, most people with a problem will know that the odds are stacked against them, but  keep playing anyway. We’ve all heard this before: “One more spin. I’m sure this is the jackpot.” Chances are it’s not.

Yet most gambling addicts will keep playing no matter how much money they lose. The urge to continue spinning or betting becomes compulsive and often uncontrollable, despite repeated losses in card games or horse races.

4 It’s Still a Problem if They Can Afford It.

If a man or woman is a millionaire and can afford to lose a few thousand dollars gambling, there may still be a problem. Addicts who spend most of their time gambling can have legal issues and may even lose their jobs. It can also still strain relationships and lead to romantic (or friend) break-ups.

Sometimes having too much money could make it worse. If they never run out of funds, they won’t be forced to hit rock bottom. Having an endless supply of means to satisfy their bad habits will only continue the cycle and prove detrimental to their personal and professional life.

5 If It’s Causing Mental Health Problems.

New York Council on Problem Gambling lists warning signs and symptoms, particularly with physical and mental health. They point out that a gambling addiction can definitely cause sleep disruptions, as well as mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Even if the gambling problem doesn’t lead to a diagnosable mental illness, the obsession could result in mood swings, personality changes or self-destructive behavior. If someone has mental health problems stemming from constant gambling, it may be time to look into treatment options.

Once you’ve spotted a gambling problem, that’s not the end of your job. Although it is not your fault that a loved one is addicted to gambling and you are in no way responsible for paying his or her debt, you can help him or her in other ways.

National Council on Problem Gambling is a great online source dedicated to helping and treating individuals with gambling problems. Check out their list of diverse programs and resources, including helplines, conferences and campaigns. With the right tools and support, you can help your loved ones put an end to their unhealthy gambling habits for good.

Edited by Sara Butler
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