Do I have a Gambling Problem? How to assess betting habits

Gambling is more accessible than ever, with 48 states allowing some form of it, and 38 states plus Washington, D.C. offering legalized sports betting. Brands like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars and BetMGM dominate the market with sportsbooks, casinos, daily fantasy sports, and now even lottery products. 

With the rise of these platforms and their pervasive advertising, gambling options are plentiful and gaming revenue are continuing to increase. A recent survey from NerdWallet found that 62% of respondents have gambled in some form in the last 12 months. Alongside the increases in popularity, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) now estimates that nearly 10 million U.S. adults may struggle with Gambling Addiction. 

If you or someone you know has had gambling become a time- or cost-consuming part of life, you might wonder, “is it a gambling problem?” For some, the dopamine rushes from gambling can mask the consequences, making it crucial to critically and properly assess betting habits.

Some people bet regularly without it becoming an issue that affects them financially or from a mental health perspective. But it's essential to monitor those habits to prevent developing an addiction and to protect those around you from the potential negative impacts.

Building proper betting habits

While a significant lack of adequate government funding in the fight against Gambling Addiction persists, understanding the psychology behind sports betting can help equip consumers with practical tactics to maintain healthy betting behaviors:

• Evaluating your betting behaviors starts with self-awareness. Mastering emotional control is essential for sustainable betting. Recognize and manage your emotions using mindfulness techniques to avoid impulsive decisions. Accept losses as part of the norm, and aim to maintain a steady mindset regardless of outcomes. If you cannot, and uncontrollable emotional swings become part of your betting behaviors, it’s a major warning sign of a serious problem.

• Improve your decision-making by recognizing biases. Regularly question your thought processes and avoid snap judgments. Analyze information objectively to make well-informed choices. If you find yourself placing random, uninformed, “throwing darts” type of bets, it could be another sign of an issue.

• Keep detailed records of your bets and outcomes. Analyze both wins and losses to identify patterns. Reviewing past decisions provides valuable insights for the future. A common issue among individuals struggling with a gambling disorder is losing track of how much they’ve lost before it’s too late, so it’s critical to have a tracking system to monitor how you are doing relative to your total bankroll.

The “red flags” of Problem Gambling

Recognizing the warning signs of a Gambling Disorder is essential for prevention and early intervention. Financial problems are often telling indicators. These can include gambling with increasing amounts of money to satisfy the chase, borrowing money from friends or family, taking out loans, late or unpaid bills, or neglecting the purchase of household essentials.

A decline in personal well-being is another significant red flag category. This can manifest as irritation and restlessness when trying to cut back on gambling, feeling mentally preoccupied with the next bet, or conflicts with colleagues, friends or family. Chasing losses, becoming absent from social events, poor performance at work or school, changes in personality and gambling when upset or under the influence of drugs and alcohol are also key indicators.

Recognizing these signs early and seeking help can prevent further deterioration of personal and financial well-being. Open communication with trusted individuals and professional guidance are vital steps in addressing Gambling Disorder.

Medical diagnosis of Gambling Disorder

A medical diagnosis of Gambling Disorder, classified as a non-substance behavioral addiction by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), requires a thorough assessment by psychologists or licensed counselors. The diagnosis involves a nine-item assessment to gauge the severity of the disorder.

An individual who exhibits 4-5 of the following behaviors within a 12-month period may be diagnosed with a mild gambling disorder, while 6-7 of the criteria met merits a moderate disorder. Lastly, if an individual exhibits 8-9 of the items, it may classify as a severe addiction:

• Constantly thinking about gambling

• Increasing the amount wagered to maintain excitement

• Feeling agitated or anxious when trying to reduce gambling

• Failing to successfully limit or stop gambling

• Using gambling as a way to deal with negative emotions like helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression

• Trying to win back lost money by continuing to gamble

• Concealing the extent of gambling activities

• Risking or losing important relationships, jobs or educational/career opportunities due to gambling

• Depending on others for financial help because of gambling-related losses

The good news is that there are effective treatment options available for Gambling Disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups or professional counseling can provide the necessary support and strategies to manage the addiction. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of Gambling Disorder and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

The next step: How to begin recovery for Problem Gambling

Recognizing that there is a problem is the first step toward recovery. If you are honest with yourself and realize the toll gambling has taken on your life, it’s time to seek help. If you are diagnosed by a clinician with a Gambling Disorder, the next steps involve regular treatment through therapy or counseling with licensed professionals. 

Birches Health is a Gambling Addiction telehealth treatment company that builds care plans tailored to your needs. After a brief assessment and intake session, you will meet with a therapist from the Birches team of counselors. Sessions are completely virtual, so you don’t have to leave home to receive proper treatment. With $25 or less in out-of-pocket costs for 90% of patients, Birches looks to make sure that finances are never a blocker to care. The treatment program also includes careful aftercare to help prevent relapse.

Beyond teletherapy, there are other resources available such as Gamblers Anonymous and local support groups. 

Taking these steps today can help you regain control and build a healthier, more balanced life free from the grips of Gambling Addiction.

Sources:

DraftKings

NerdWallet

OddsTrader

Could I have a gambling problem?  

DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for Gambling Disorder