Phases of Gambling

Problem gambling is any form of gambling that interferes with a person’s ability to function normally in major areas of their life. This could include family, work, social relationships, and/or psychologically. Gambling is on the rise and it is important to know the facts and be able to recognize if you or a loved one needs help. Problem gambling occurs in three phases. Knowing these phases can help you recognize a problem sooner. The three phases include the winning phase, losing phase, and desperation phase.

Winning Phase:

Gambling is looked at as fun and entertaining

May experience a “big win” or smaller wins, resulting in excessive optimism

Gambling increases, but does not yet interfere with major responsibilities

May be few or no negative consequences to gambling at this phase

Increased gambling is rationalized

Some experience a “big win” that is long remembered

If winning or breaking even, a person may think of themselves as a talented gambler

This phase may last for years or may be brief to non-existent for others

Losing Phase:

Gambling increases, replacing other activities

Gambler loses more than wins, wagers increase

Gambling downplayed/hidden

Preoccupation with gambling and how to finance gambling habits (legal or illegal)

Personality changes, feelings of irritability, restlessness, and emotional isolation

Careless with family/friends, losing time at work

Borrows money and is unable to repay

May be developing serious financial problems

Chasing your loses (trying to win back what’s been lost)

Desperation Phase:

Make bets more often than normal, desperately trying to catch up or get even

May pull away from family and friends, blame them for losses

Significant feelings of depression, anxiety and guilt about gambling

May sell personal/family items

May engage in illegal activities to fund gambling

Feelings of hopelessness, possible thoughts of suicide or divorce

Physical health and sleep patterns may be affected

Panic at the thought gambling will cease if credit or bail-outs are stopped

For more information or if you know someone that needs help call the Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program at 358-3141. Helping Build A Better Tomorrow.