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Learn the Warning Signs
If gambling has stopped being a fun, affordable activity for you or a loved one, it may be time to take a closer look.
Know the Signs
The signs below may indicate a problem. The more signs a person shows, the greater the likelihood that he or she may have lost control of their gambling.
- Gambling for longer and longer periods of time
- Lying about the extent of gambling involved
- Often missing work or school to gamble
- Neglecting personal or family responsibilities to gamble
- Using gambling as an escape
- Gambling with money needed for paying bills
- Believing the "big win" will bring gambling under control
Some Signs of Problem Gambling
The following scenarios may be signs of a problem. Click each to learn more.
Lying about the extent of gambling activity and involvement is a sign of a problem.
Problem gamblers are often absent from school, work or important social occasions because they are gambling.
Those with gambling problems often neglect responsibilities so they can keep playing.
His mortgage payment was lost in an online game of blackjack. Using money intended for monthly bills and a growing debt resulting from gambling are signs of a problem.
His mortgage payment was lost in an online game of blackjack. Using money intended for monthly bills and a growing debt resulting from gambling are signs of a problem.
Take Action
If you suspect that someone is experiencing a problem with gambling, it's natural to want to help. Just remember that it's up to the individual to seek help. It must be their choice, and only when they're ready. What you can do is offer support by following the tips below.
Talking Tips
- Learn about help and support available before approaching the person.
- Prepare examples of how the person's gambling has had a negative impact on you and others.
- Remember that the behaviour is the problem, not the person.
- Communicate using "I" messages without being judgmental (e.g., "When you do this, I feel...")
- Be supportive and offer resources if the person is open to getting help.
What Would You Do?
Click each to learn more:
It may be easier in the short term, but it allows the problem to grow. It's best to help the individual face the problem as soon as possible.
Remember that the behaviour is the problem, not the person. Try to communicate without being judgmental. You can't force someone to stop gambling, but offering emotional support can lead them to seek the help they need.
Yes, it is very important that she understands that someone cares.
Yes, if you have specific examples of how his behaviour has negatively affected those he cares for, it's a good idea to tell him.
Not lending any more money is a good idea. It's best not to support or enable her behaviour. But make sure you don't encourage her to borrow from other sources.
Great! Just don't provide counseling yourself. Leave that to the professionals. When he's ready, encourage him to call the 24-hour Problem Gambling Help Line at 1-888-795-6111.
Finding Help
Has gambling become a problem for you? Are you wondering if someone you know has a gambling problem? Maybe you're just interested in learning about available support. Help is available for all of these situations from the following resources.
GamTalk
GamTalk is a free online forum for people who want to share experiences and ideas about gambling.
BC GAM Info Line – 1-888-795-6111
The Helpline and counselling services are offered free-of-charge by the Province of British Columbia.
BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program
BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program is a source for information on responsible gambling and assistance for those seeking help with problem gambling.
Responsible Gambling Council
Responsible Gambling Council is a a non-profit organization committed to the prevention of problem gambling.
McGill University
International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous is a site for those who wish to stop gambling.
Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch
The ministry's Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch regulates all gaming in British Columbia, including the operations of the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, which conducts and manages commercial gaming in the province.
Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch
The ministry's Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branchs regulates all gaming in British Columbia, including the operations of the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
