The Different Stages of Gambling Addiction and How to Recognize Them
Understanding gambling addiction means recognizing that it often unfolds in different stages, starting with excitement early on and then continuing to escalate into a serious, life-impacting condition. Identifying these stages can help you intervene before gambling causes lasting harm, or at least better understand why things unfold a certain way..
In Illinois, addiction gambling affects countless individuals, families, and communities. Resources like the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling(ICPG) provide compassionate guidance for the problem gambling community in Illinois, including those living with problem gambling and the people who help them.
What is Gambling Addiction?
Gambling addiction, or problem gambling, is best characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the harmful consequences that it can have on someone’s finances, relationships, or even their emotional health. It’s considered to be a behavioral addiction that is very similar to substance use disorders, because both involve certain compulsive behaviors that are driven by the brain’s reward pathways.
Any activities that involve gambling and gaming can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain which creates powerful feelings of pleasure and reinforce continued behavior. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, there are approximately 2.5 million Americans that meet the criteria for having gambling disorder, and another 5-8 million who are in the earlier stages of having a mild to moderate gambling problem, showing just how significant this issue is nationwide. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER today.
The Stages of Gambling Addiction
Knowing how gambling addiction develops can make a real difference if you’re worried about someone you care about. Let’s take a look at the different stages of gambling addiction, so you can spot the signs early on and offer the right support.
Stage 1: The Winning Phase
During the early stage of gambling addiction, which is also known as the winning phase, gambling and gaming usually feel exciting, fun, and completely harmless. Frequent wins and occasional jackpots can lead some people to have a very strong sense of optimism and level of confidence.
People might genuinely believe they have a special talent or extraordinary luck, which can make it difficult to fully recognize the risk that is involved. At this point, both the emotional and financial stress is very minimal, making the gambling behavior seem safe. If you notice someone in this phase, now is the time to gently encourage conversations about responsible gambling and creating healthy boundaries, putting an emphasis on awareness rather than judgment.
Stage 2: The Losing Phase
As gambling slowly begins to shift from enjoyment to compulsion, people enter the losing phase of addiction gambling. Certain signs become clearer. They may start chasing their losses by placing larger bets, they may be facing increased financial strain, and they may have difficulty managing their debts as they continue to escalate.
Secrecy and lying often start becoming an issue as individuals attempt to hide their gambling behaviors. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and strained relationships. According to a recent study, over 75% of problem gamblers experience financial hardship. If you notice these behaviors in someone you care about, it’s time to express your concern compassionately. Let them know you’re there to support them as they get the help they deserve.
Upcoming In-Person Event
cultural, community, in-person
4th Annual Latine Conference on Problem Gambling
Hosted by ICPG & Cicero Family Service
September 18, 8:30 AM - September 18, 3:30 PM
Loyola University Lake Shore Campus - JoAnn Rooney Hall
Stage 3: The Desperation Phase
This is the stage where things quickly begin to escalate. In the desperation phase, gambling becomes an overwhelming compulsion. People may neglect their family responsibilities, their jobs, and their friendships, with gambling taking priority over everything else in their lives. Financial struggles often deepen dramatically, sometimes leading individuals to consider illegal activities in order to fund their habit.
Emotionally, feelings of anxiety, despair, and intense distress become frequent and severe occurrences. If someone you care about reaches this stage, compassionately yet firmly encourage them to get professional help. It is very important that you offer your support, but it is equally important to set clear, healthy boundaries in order to protect your own emotional well-being.
Stage 4: The Hopeless Phase
This is the worst and final stage of gambling addiction. In the hopeless phase, individuals that are battling gambling addiction experience profound despair, isolation, and usually a severe deterioration of both their mental and physical health.
Research from the National Library of Medicine shows that nearly 17% of people that are experiencing a gambling disorder have suicidal thoughts. If someone you care about reaches this critical point, it is essential that they get immediate professional intervention.
Where to Get Gambling Support in Illinois
If you’re looking for guidance on how to stop gambling in Illinois, the support you need is available. Organizations such as the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling can give you access to valuable resources, including a confidential 24-hour helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.
While ICPG is an organization focused on “helping the helpers” – your healthcare providers, counselors, and community members – we also uplift the voices of those in recovery and provide you with resources such as our local Gambler’s Anonymous chapter and organizations that can directly connect you with support.
Remember, no matter what stage you’re at, recovery is always possible. You’re not alone. There is trustworthy, local support ready to help you and your loved ones take meaningful steps toward healing and reclaiming your life.
If you are seeing the signs of gambling addiction in either yourself or someone you care about, please don’t wait to reach out. Early action can make all the difference. You deserve education and support. We can point you in the right direction.
Take Your Expertise in Problem Gambling to the Next Level
If you’re a healthcare provider, counselor, or community member ready to integrate problem gambling screening into your practice and looking for ways to destigmatize problem gambling, you’ve come to the right place.
ICPG offers free courses for CE/CME credits online, on-demand and live trainings, and regular conferences to help you learn how to help those struggling with problem gambling. Learn how to have difficult conversations, how to identify patients in crisis, and how to help.
Sadly, problem gambling is a pervasive issue poised to get worse. But the good news is that even one person can make a difference. Take the first step toward being the change in your Illinois community by discovering our upcoming events and contacting us today. We’re here to help you help others.