Gambling addiction can cause serious financial and personal hardship. Furthermore, it can exacerbate existing mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.

Gambling addiction can be assessed via self-assessments; however, for an accurate diagnosis it is wise to visit with a clinician. Treatment and recovery may be challenging but help is available if needed.

1. You’re losing money

Losing money is often the telltale sign of gambling addiction. Other indications could include:

lie to friends and family to hide gambling losses; steal money or property to fund their habit; use gambling as an escape from personal problems and distressful feelings; spend more time gambling than working, studying or caring for loved ones.

If your friend or family member displays any of these symptoms, speak openly and honestly with them about getting help. Expressing concerns without becoming angry or defensive will enable an open dialogue about gambling disorder treatment options and recovery processes available; you might also consider seeking professional counseling yourself (psychotherapy or Gamblers Anonymous for instance).

2. You’re losing control

Gambling addiction often manifests itself through deceitful behavior aimed at funding their habit and concealing losses, including lying to loved ones about it and engaging in illegal activities to replenish funds lost from gambling. When this is discovered by you or another family member, this should be seen as a red flag and immediate intervention must take place to help your loved one recover their financial wellbeing.

If you are concerned about someone close to you and their gambling habits, talk with an experienced therapist who specializes in gambling disorders. Priory provides free initial assessments with expert therapists who can assess risk factors and suggest treatments options. Or visit an in-person or online gambling support group where you can voice your concerns without offending anyone – these groups offer encouragement and hope!

3. You’re spending more time gambling

Gambling addiction affects individuals from all backgrounds. Even those who appear responsible can become compulsive gamblers. Addicts tend to hide their behavior from those around them, yet their destructive habits can create major disruption in relationships and the workplace.

These individuals may lie to friends and family members in order to cover gambling expenses, steal money from others to fund their habits, commit fraud or break laws to fund them – one sure sign they’ve become addicted is theft – it is crucial for family members to intervene and seek help for them if this is suspected as soon as possible.

If you recognize these signs, it’s time to reach out for professional assistance. BetterHelp offers counselors who specialize in gambling disorders and mental health concerns; one can be assigned within 48 hours.

4. You’re losing friends

Gambling addiction can strain any relationship, especially when someone begins lying to family and friends about their gambling activity to cover up their behavior – this should be seen as an alarm bell and taken as an indicator that something might be amiss.

Sternlicht advises against lending money to anyone with a gambling disorder, and suggests closing any joint accounts that they share together. He adds that this will enable them to set boundaries and regain control of their finances.

If you detect these warning signs in a loved one, don’t be intimidated to raise them with trusted friends or counselors. While admitting their gambling problem may be difficult for them, treatment services and support groups for depression or co-occurring conditions exist that can provide valuable assistance in getting help for gambling addiction.

5. You’re losing control of your emotions

Gambling addiction is an incapacitating disorder that can result in many emotional challenges for those involved, from frequent irritation or anger to depression and anxiety.

Gamblers who become dependent can turn to lying about their activities or stealing money from family and friends to fund their habit. Furthermore, they may opt not to pay their bills as scheduled or put in longer hours at work in order to cover the costs associated with their addiction.

If you suspect that one of your loved ones has a gambling disorder, it is essential to discuss them with nonjudgmental and rational individuals who will offer support. Reaching out to a counselor or attending a local gambling recovery meeting might also prove helpful in finding assistance for them.