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Problem Gambling

With the expansion of casinos across our nation and growth of online sportsbetting, millions of Americans are struggling with problem gambling.

We're here to help.

Are you or a loved one dealing with a gambling problem?

Problem gambling, sometimes also called compulsive gambling, or gambling addiction is an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life and the people around you. Problem gamblers are often preoccupied with gambling, bet bigger amounts hoping to win back what they've lost, and generally have tried unsuccessfully to quit. Problem gamblers often experience financial hardships, trouble in their relationships, difficulties at work and their mental health suffers. Some even contemplate suicide.

The good news is that help for problem gambling is available.

Do you have a gambling problem?

Problem Gambling Recovery is possible!

As an 18-year-old, I experienced a $10,000 win on a slot machine in Atlantic City. I was hooked and didn’t remember the fact that I gave most of it back before I headed back home that Sunday night. Over the course of several years, I tried again and again for that kind of big win again; I just wanted to feel that high again, but I wound up losing tens of thousands of dollars. I chased my losses, and promised myself that once I “get even,” or at least regain some of my losses back, I would forever stop gambling. My debts grew and grew and I lived my life dodging creditors. Sometimes I become suicidal and I lied to my family, friends and associates so many times that I lost count. I'm glad those days are over.

Young guy in recovery from problem gambling

Problem Gambling Facts

2 Million

An estimated 2 million U.S. adults (1%) meet the diagnostic criteria for severe gambling problems in any given year.

4-6 Million

Another 4-6 million (2-3%) have mild or moderate gambling problems. They don't meet the full diagnostic criteria for gambling addiction but have started to experience problems.

Billion

The annual social cost of problem gambling in the US is $7 billion. These costs include gambling-related criminal justice and healthcare spending as well as job loss, bankruptcy and other consequences.

60-80%

of Teens

Between 60-80% of high school students report having gambled for money during the past year; 8% of these teens are pathological gamblers.