Problem Gambling
Problem gambling (sometimes referred to as “gambling addiction” or “gambling disorder”) is gambling behavior that is damaging to a person or their family, often disrupting their daily life and career. Anyone who gambles can be at-risk for developing a gambling problem. Gambling disorder is a recognized mental health diagnosis.
Gambling Problem Warning Signs
- Thinking about gambling all the time.
- Feeling the need to bet more money and more often.
- Going back to try to win your money back (“chasing losses”).
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down.
- Gambling despite negative consequences.
- In extreme cases, problem gambling can cause bankruptcy, legal problems, job loss, family harms, and thinking about suicide.
Problem Gambling in Illinois
- 3.8% of adult Illinoisans (approximately 383,000 people) are considered to have a gambling problem
- An additional 7.7% (approximately 761,000 people) are at risk for developing a gambling problem
The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that the annual national social cost of problem gambling in the U.S. is $7 billion. These costs include job loss, bankruptcy, gambling-related healthcare spending and other consequences.
