Look at the criteria for a potential problem gambler below.

What are some common signs of underage gambling issues?

• One carries or possesses gambling materials such as dice, playing cards, and lottery tickets
• They say gambling is a good way to make easy money
• They borrow money from family and friends to pay gambling debts
• They may take desperate measures to get more money to gamble, such as stealing from family.
• Gamble with money that is supposed to be used for other things (lunch, bus fare, etc.)
• One may skip classes and/or neglect homework
• Also may neglect family and friends
• They have frequent mood swings
• Lie about gambling
• They display large amounts of cash and other material possessions
• Gamble to escape worries, frustrations, and disappointments
• They continue to gamble despite the pain it brings to themselves and others

Warning Signs For Teens:

• Is gambling the most exciting activity in your life?
• Do you miss school, activities, or other events due to gambling?
• Has anyone expressed concern about your gambling?
• Do you borrow money to gamble?
• Have you sold personal belongings to get money to gamble?
• Have you stolen from your family, friends, or employer to gamble or to pay back gambling debts?
• After losing, do you try to win your money back by gambling?
• Have you tried to stop gambling but can't?
• Have you ever lied about the nature or extent of your gambling?

If you or someone you know has answered yes to any of these questions, they are potentially problem gamblers, and it is your responsibility to ensure that the problem be fixed. Otherwise, these problems may present themselves in your life or others':

Consequences of Gambling

• Losing your savings
• Losing your home to pay gambling debts
• Losing your family and friends
• Losing your employment
• Resorting to crime to support your gambling habit, such as theft and embezzlement