Problem Gambling - A Guide for Families (PDF) - ProblemGambling.ca

What Is Problem Gambling
Some kinds of gambling cause more difficulty than others.
For example, slot machines may hook players by their continuous
play features, frequent small wins, the chance of bigger
wins and what seem to be frequent near-misses. However,
any form of gambling can become a problem.
Risk Factors
There are many risk factors for problem gambling. Risk factors
are things that make a person more likely to develop
gambling problems. A person is more at risk if he or she:
• had a big win early in his or her gambling history
• has money problems
• has had a recent loss or change, such as relationship problems,
divorce, job loss, retirement or the death of a loved one
• is gambling to cope with a health concern and/or physical pain
• often feels lonely
• has few interests and hobbies, or feels his or her life lacks
direction
• often feels bored, takes risks or acts without thinking
• uses gambling, or alcohol or other drugs, to cope with bad
feelings or events
• often feels depressed or anxious
• has been abused or traumatized
• has (or had) problems with alcohol or other drugs, gambling
or overspending
• is in a family where someone has had problems with alcohol
or other drugs, gambling or overspending
• thinks he or she has a system or a way of gambling that
increases his or her odds of winning.
There are many
risk factors
that make a
person more
likely to
develop
gambling
problems.
The more items in this list that are true for someone, the
more care the person needs to take with gambling.
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