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What is Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is any type of gambling that compromises, disrupts, or damages your personal, family, working and social relationships, as well as your financial situation.  It also has a great effect on the individual’s physical, emotional and mental health.

The Canadian Problem Gambling Index, in its final report, defines problem gambling as:

Problem gambling is gambling behaviour that creates negative consequences for the gambler, others in his or her social network, or for the community.

Problem gambling has a serious impact on not only the gambler, but also on family members, friends and co-workers.

Gamblers Anonymous define problem gambling as:

Any betting or wagering, for self or other whether for money or not, no matter how slight or insignificant, where the outcome is uncertain or depend upon chance or skill constitutes gambling.

Gambling Problem Gambling
  • Risking something of value
  • One realizes that something is at risk
  • Understanding that when the bet is done, is irreversible
  • Outcome is determine by chance
  • A pattern of gambling behaviour which compromises, disrupts and damages family, personal and/or professional life
  • Spends money in a way that is harmful to the person
  • May also harm people around them including family, spouse, friends