Problem Gambling
Information
What's Problem Gambling?
The National Council on Problem Gambling defines problem gambling as:
"Problem gambling–or gambling addiction–includes
all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits.
The symptoms include
increasing preoccupation with gambling,
a need to bet more money more frequently,
restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, “chasing” losses,
loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.
In extreme cases, problem gambling can result in financial ruin, legal problems, loss of career and family, or even suicide. For more information on the American Psychiatric Association’s criteria for gambling addiction, please see the DSM 5 at www.psych.org."
Know the Signs
of Problem Gambling
Most people who gamble do so with no harmful effects. They set limits and stick to them. However, for a small percentage of the population, gambling can become more than a game, and lead to serious consequences for both the gambler and their family.
Here are some of the warning signs:
Gambling to escape worry or trouble
Gambling to get money to solve financial difficulties
Unable to stop playing regardless of winning or losing
Gambling until the last dollar is gone
Losing time from work due to gambling
Borrowing money to pay gambling debts
Neglecting family because of gambling
Lying about time and money spent gambling
Colorado Resources
Colorado's Self Exclusion Program
Enroll in Colorado's Self Exclusion Program
Colorado Gambler Anonymous Meetings
The Colorado Intergroup of Gamblers Anonymous site includes information on meeting in the state, plus literature and information on upcoming events.
Gamblers Anonymous International Service Office
Gamblers Anonymous meetings, hotlines, etc.
Recovery Road Online
An online recovery program with no dues or fees, conducting 12-Step meetings, and offering many original and additional resources for help in quitting gambling and living in recovery. We provide nearly instantaneous connections with other problem gamblers, which was the motivation for starting Recovery Road Online.
SMART Recovery
Our mutual support meetings are free and open to anyone
seeking science-based, self-empowered addiction recovery.
Gam Talk
Online support for gambling issues
Gamblers in Recovery Online Meetings
Online support meetings for gamblers in recovery.
Massachusetts' International Center For Responsible Gaming
The ICRG is inspired by the mission to help individuals and families affected by gambling disorders through first-class research and evidence-based education programs.
National Council on Problem Gambling- Washington DC
Contains links to all state council web sites, literature, counselors, etc.
New York's Know the Odds
An interactive. visual tool that helps you visualize how much money can be lost from problem gambling.
Ohio's Before You Bet Risk Assessment Tool
“Get Set Before You Bet is meant to provide education and to grow awareness of how to keep gambling fun for those who gamble and how to get help for those who need it.” Has a responsible gambler assessment quiz as well as resources on how to gamble more responsibly. Also has a responsible gambler game that makes learning about responsible gambling easier and more fun.
Ontario's Responsible Gambling Council
This 20-year-old organization in Ontario, Canada has an "e-library" of research
and information.
National Resources
Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling
A non-profit organization dedicated to helping problem gamblers. State affiliate of the National Council of Problem Gambling.
California Council on Problem Gambling
The California Council on Problem Gambling has resources, education, screening tools, and prevention materials.
Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling
The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) is a non-profit agency dedicated to reducing gambling-related harm and helping those who may be negatively impacted by gambling. CCPG does not advocate for or against gambling but is committed to working with all stakeholders to help individuals and families who are experiencing issues. CCPG provides Connecticut’s only 24/7 helpline- offering support, resources, and referrals through phone, chat, and text.
Council on Compulsive Gaming of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc. (CCGNJ) is a private non-profit organization providing information, education, and referral services for people affected by a gambling problems for nearly 40 years. Our primary purpose is to represent the best interest of problem and disordered gamblers and their families, recognizing that problem gambling is a treatable condition.
Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling
The ECPG Website is designed to provide information on education and treatment programs and services created and/or administered by the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling. ECPG is a private, nonprofit organization offering programs and services for problem gambling and Gambling Disorder in Washington and throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling
" The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) is committed to increasing public awareness about problem and compulsive gambling. The FCCG provides referral services and supports residents in need of assistance with a gambling addiction, as well as to professionals and others servicing this population. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors and is an affiliate member of the National Council on Problem Gambling."
Massachusetts Office of Problem Gambling
The Office of Problem Gambling Services serves Massachusetts residents who are impacted by gambling-related harms, with a focus on communities disproportionately impacted by gambling.
Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health
The Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health is a private, non-profit public health agency. We advocate for responsible gaming and gambling practices and services for those affected by gambling.
Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling
The website of the Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling offers valuable information, resources, and links to other helpful sites. In addition, it maintains up-to-date information on the annual Midwest Conference on Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse.
National Center on Responsible Gaming
Since its founding in 1996, the ICRG has launched a field of study to explore gambling disorders and responsible gambling and has funded some of the most important research in the US and around the world.
National Council on Problem Gambling
To serve as the national advocate for programs and services to assist people and families affected by problem gambling.
North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries
Resources, FAQ, screening tools.
North American Training Institute
This organization provides online training for therapists and problem gambling
prevention resources.
Problem Gambling Network of Ohio
The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio strives to generate awareness, promote education, and be an advocate for quality treatment of problem gamblers in the state of Ohio
