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Stages of Gambling Addiction

The shift from casual, relaxed gambling to the frantic and often futile attempt to chase losses is gradual. Most individuals don’t realize until it’s (too) late that what started as a fun pastime has turned into something much more serious. The process from the first positive experience with gambling to pathological gambling (addiction) can be broken down into three phases.

The Big Win! The Initial Stage:

If large amounts of money are won early in gambling, it can quickly create the illusion that this is due to personal skill and competence rather than pure chance or luck. At the same time, losses are perceived as personal failure, denied, or downplayed. It becomes problematic when bank accounts are constantly overdrawn, loans are taken out, and friends are borrowed from to continue gambling.

The Game Gets Serious! The Habitual Stage:

It usually begins with the increasing use of borrowed money. These loans are kept secret as much as possible. At the same time, the gambler is convinced they can get their debt under control (“Once I’m out of debt, I’ll stop”). The gambler distances themselves from friends and partners, leading to further isolation.

The Game is Over! The Dependency Stage:

What once was a “leisure activity” turns into an all-consuming full-time occupation. The loss of relationships, jobs, and social recognition are the consequences. Without external professional help, this vicious cycle can no longer be broken.

You Need Help! Addiction Support Services:

Tips for Responsible Gambling:

  • Only gamble with amounts you’ve set for yourself in advance.
  • Stick to that amount, even if others try to convince you to raise it. Remember, the risk is yours alone!
  • Always keep in mind: you are paying for entertainment, not making a financial investment!
  • Do not increase the maximum amount you’ve set for yourself afterward.
  • Before you start playing, decide at what level of winnings you’ll stop.
  • Set a limit on how much you are willing to lose before you start playing.
  • Never gamble under the influence of alcohol or medication.
  • Don’t gamble when you’re feeling depressed.
  • Only gamble when you’re rested and focused.

Am I at Risk of Gambling Addiction? A Self-Test

Gambling addiction – like other forms of addiction – is a habitual dependency that can develop over many months or even years. Whether someone is experiencing gambling addiction depends on various factors, some of which may differ from person to person. Signs of gambling addiction or being at risk of it can include behaviors such as: * You feel the need to gamble with increasingly larger amounts of money * You’ve had to lie to people who matter to you about how much you gamble. To better assess yourself and your gambling habits, take a few minutes to complete a self-test. The test consists of 19 questions. After answering all the questions, you will receive an overview of the potential risk level of your gambling behavior.

  • 1.   Does gambling affect your performance at work or in your free time?
  • 2.   Would you say that friends and family are skeptical about your gambling hobby?
  • 3.   Have you ever thought about using illegal means to get money for gambling?
  • 4.   Do you sometimes use gambling as an excuse to escape the stress of everyday life?
  • 5.   Do your gambling sessions often last longer than originally planned?
  • 6.   After a win, do you feel like you shouldn’t stop and must take advantage of your lucky streak to win more?
  • 7.   Has your reputation among colleagues, friends, or family already been damaged?
  • 8.   Do you sometimes feel guilty after playing or losing?
  • 9.   Do you see gambling as a way to earn money?
  • 10. Are you tempted to chase losses immediately with higher bets?
  • 11. Do you often gamble with your last bit of money?
  • 12. Have you ever borrowed money or taken out a loan to finance your gambling and cover your losses?
  • 13. Is your job or education suffering due to your gambling habits?
  • 14. Have you had to part with valuables to get more money?
  • 15. Have you ever been unsure whether to use gambling money for essential expenses like rent and groceries?
  • 16. Does your family feel neglected because of your gambling?
  • 17. Does gambling cause you to have trouble sleeping?
  • 18. Have you ever felt hopeless due to gambling?
  • 19. Have you ever seriously considered suicide because of gambling and your losses?
If you answered “YES” to several of these questions and are unsure whether you still have control over your gambling habits, consider reaching out to one of the support centers listed above.