Spotting Gambling Harm in Others
Would you know how to spot if someone else's gambling is causing harm?
Gambling is also known as the ‘hidden addiction’, and quite often the signs are not clear. Research and experience has indicated that these are helpful ways to identify if your own or someone else’s gambling has become harmful.
Here's some tips from RGC to help you when you are worried about a loved one's gambling...
Signs to look out for if you’re concerned about someone else’s gambling
Hiding bills, past-due notices, winnings, or losses
Increased debt, unpaid bills, or other financial troubles
Increased tension, stress, and arguments relating to money
Choosing gambling over spending time with friends or family
Neglecting work, school and personal needs because of gambling
Getting easily irritated or having less patience when dealing with everyday activities
Having few interests outside of gambling
If these signs sound familiar, it’s time to talk about it.
Financial Troubles
Financial troubles are one of the potentially more visible signs of a problem with gambling. The financial costs of a problem with gambling are significant and can include financial insecurity, reduced disposable income, job loss, loss of home and/or business, increased debt and potential bankruptcy.
Below are a few of the financial warning signs that can be associated with problem gambling:
Overdue and unpaid bills
Increased spending on credit cards/significant and unexplained debt increase
Secretive about money problems and/or account balance(s)
Constant flux of money on their person (flushed with money one moment and none available the next)
Frequently short/lacking money despite sufficient income
Repeatedly borrowing money from friends and/or family
Money disappearing from savings account, home, or wallets without explanation
Receiving calls from collection agencies
Need Help or Support?
If you, or your loved one is experiencing these signs and symptoms and needs help with gambling related harms, the PEI Gambling Support Line is available 24/7 for confidential assistance and support.