| NOT JUST A GAME OF CHANCE Problem Gambling: the Hidden Addiction |
Gambling is a common activity in our society. Whether it’s Bingo, Off Track Betting (OTB), casinos,
racinos, lotteries, or sports betting, many people can legally gamble as a fun social or recreational
activity. For others, however, it can become a problem that can lead to serious consequences not
only for the individual experiencing the problem, but also for friends and family members as well.
Problem gambling has been called the Hidden Addiction because there are seldom physical signs
to help identify the problem. The problem can go undetected for long periods of time until a major
crisis occurs. Problem gambling doesn’t discriminate. It affects all communities and many families
throughout New York State.
racinos, lotteries, or sports betting, many people can legally gamble as a fun social or recreational
activity. For others, however, it can become a problem that can lead to serious consequences not
only for the individual experiencing the problem, but also for friends and family members as well.
- 5% of adults in New York State experienced a gambling problem within the past year.
- 20% of adolescents in grades 7-12 in New York State, are at risk for or currently have
- In addition to those individuals with a gambling problem, hundreds of thousands of family
Problem gambling has been called the Hidden Addiction because there are seldom physical signs
to help identify the problem. The problem can go undetected for long periods of time until a major
crisis occurs. Problem gambling doesn’t discriminate. It affects all communities and many families
throughout New York State.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Become aware of the risk factors and warning signs of problem gambling
* An individual with a gambling problem may not necessarily exhibit all of these behaviors.
Become aware of the risk factors and warning signs of problem gambling
- Spending more and more time thinking about gambling
- Needing to gamble with more and more money
- Becoming restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or feeling of depression or anxiousness
- After losing money gambling, returns another day to get even.
- Lies to family or others about gambling activities
- Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control gambling by cutting back or stopping.
- Commits illegal acts to finance gambling or pay gambling debts.
- Risks or loses a significant relationship, job, education or career opportunity because of gambling.
- Seeks financial bailouts or help from others to relieve a desperate financial situation.
* An individual with a gambling problem may not necessarily exhibit all of these behaviors.
If you or someone you know needs help with a gambling problem, call 1-800-846-7369
The helpline is run by the New York Council on Problem Gambling.
Operators can provide crisis intervention, treatment and self-help referrals, as well as general information.
ALL CALLS ARE CONFIDENTIAL
SOURCES: “Not Just a Game of Chance” New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services
RESOURCES: New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services, www.oasas.state.ny.us
New York Council on Problem Gambling, www.nyproblemgambling.org
National Council on Problem Gambling, 1-800-522-4700, www.ncpgambling.org
Gamblers Anonymous, www.gamblersanonymous.org
Gam-Anon, www.gam-anon.org
RESOURCES: New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services, www.oasas.state.ny.us
New York Council on Problem Gambling, www.nyproblemgambling.org
National Council on Problem Gambling, 1-800-522-4700, www.ncpgambling.org
Gamblers Anonymous, www.gamblersanonymous.org
Gam-Anon, www.gam-anon.org
| Herkimer County Prevention Council 61 West Street Ilion NY 13357 Ph: 315-894-8080 Fax:: 315-894-6313 Email: hcpc2@juno.com Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Sponsored by Catholic Charities of Herkimer County an Agency of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany
