Gambling

Life's a gamble. It's a cliché but think about it. Playing bingo, buying lottery tickets, betting a few bucks on a sports event or even a game of cards like poker? These are all types of gambling. For most people it's a bit of fun. But for some, not so much.

Gambling can be a major problem and spotting it can be difficult. It's not like there's a big arrow saying "Problem Gambler Over Here" hanging over someone`s head.

But there are signs:

• Asking for money, borrowing cash from friends and family
• Unexplained debt or suspicious 'extra' cash
• Calls from strangers
• Unexplained absences from home, school or work
• Increased daydreaming or anxiety
• Extreme moodiness
• Withdrawal from relationships, school groups or activities

Look for help when you:

• Spend more and more time gambling
• Place larger, more frequent bets
• Have growing debts
• Keep hoping for the "big win"
• Promise to cut back on gambling
• Start lying about gambling
• Want to gamble instead of going to a special family occasion or hanging out with friends
• Think about gambling all the time
• Are distracted from normal stuff like your job, school, or family...
• Feel isolated, lonely, guilty or depressed
• Have serious cash flow problems as you chase your losses and add even more debt
• Feel like crap and even have health problems such as high blood pressure, ulcers, and headaches from stress

Play Safe

Just because you gamble doesn't mean you are Dr. Evil. In fact, gambling is one of the most popular fundraisers for charities trying to raise money for good causes, but if you do gamble get up on it:

• Remember, there's always risk involved in gambling or betting
• Choose how much you're willing to bet before you start and set a limit on how much time you spend
• Take your winnings and buy something cool or add it to your savings
• Only take the money you are prepared to lose
• Don't make gambling your main activity. There's other cool stuff to do like play sports or video games, hang out with friends, and homework!

Anyone who gambles can develop a problem. If you start young and your family and friends gamble, you are at a greater risk for developing a gambling problem. You may not experience any problems in the beginning, but they can show up later.

Prevention is the best solution. Educate yourself about gambling and learn the difference between safe and problem gambling. Talk to friends and family about safe gambling.

Take Control of Your Destiny

I Got Problems

If you think you have a problem or know someone who does, talk to an Addictions Counsellor, the School Guidance Counsellor, a family member or a close friend.

If you or someone you know is showing these signs there is help available.

Please click here to contact the Addictions Services Offices in you area.

Or call: Problem Gambling Helpline 1-888-899-HELP (4357)