Self Assessment: Gambling
This self-assessment is designed to help you identify key indicators of compulsive gambling and to raise awareness about negative, escalatory or cyclical patterns. It is not intended as a clinical diagnostic tool.
Do I have a Problem with Gambling?
Gambling addiction is a process addiction characterised by compulsive participation in gambling activities such as gaming (pokies, cards), betting (racing, sports) lotteries (lotto, scratchies) or speculation (‘deals’, stocks and shares).
When we suffer from compulsive gambling we come to depend on these activities to feel better in some way and we experience cravings for them, just as happens with a substance addiction. As the addiction develops we continue to gamble in spite of negative consequences such as financial problems, relationship difficulties or legal issues.
Compulsive gambling is marked by exhilarating highs from wins, denial that there’s a problem and a tendency to attempt to recoup losses instead of calling it quits.
As you read each of the following statements, take your time to think about the answer before selecting the response which feels right. Only you will see the results of this test, so take this as an opportunity to be completely honest with yourself. Remember, minimising and denying behaviours and consequences is a symptom of gambling addiction.
If you’d rather undertake a free, confidential, tailored assessment over the phone — or would like to discuss your results — our team is available seven days a week on 1800 063 332 or contact us here.
All responses are protected by patient confidentiality. Your answers to individual questions will not be stored or saved.
