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Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals | Bruce Greenstein, Secretary

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Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term "problem gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "pathological", "disordered" or "compulsive" gambling -- an addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.

Are you or a loved one experiencing problem gambling?

  1. Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money? or
  2. Have you ever had to lie to people important to you about how much you gambled?

If someone answers YES  to either one of these questions, that person should seek the advice of an experienced problem gambling counselor.

There are resources available at no cost for Louisiana residents

Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term "problem gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "pathological", "disordered" or "compulsive" gambling -- an addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Feel the need to be secretive about your gambling
  • Have trouble controlling your gambling
  • Spending more time gambling than intended
  • Increase in size of bets (sudden and dramatic)
  • Working up special occasions for gambling (canceling other plans)
  • Gamble even when you don't have the money
  • Intensity of interest in gambling (constant tension & excitement)
  • Boasting about winning; evasive about losing
  • Family and friends are worried about you
  • Exaggerated display of money and other possessions
  • Drop off in other activities
  • Preoccupied
  • Frequent absences from home and work
  • Withdrawal from family
  • Personality changes (increased irritability/hostility)
  • Diversion of family funds
  • Borrowing Money
  • Criminal Activity

For information and referral assistance, contact the state's toll-free Problem Gambling Helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-STOP (7867) or http://www.helpforgambling.org.