By Julie Jaggernath

Gambling has never been more popular than in today’s culture. Poker games are broadcast on sports networks. There’s a bingo hall in every small town. Raffle tickets are popular fundraisers. And milestone jackpots are reported by mainstream news outlets, e.g. Lotto Max or Chase the Ace.

On occasion it can be fun to head to the casino with friends, bet on the outcome of a sporting event, join a hockey or football pool, play Keno or buy lotto tickets when the jackpot has reached a certain level. But what happens when a friend or family member seems obsessed with winning; they might not even be interested in much else, or they spend all of their free time at the casino?

Many people consider gambling to be just another hobby, like golf or photography. No one blinks an eye when you buy the odd lottery ticket, spend a weekend in Vegas for the “attractions”, or wager on the outcome of a hockey tournament.

However, how can you tell when gambling stops being “just for fun”?

Warning Signs That Gambling Isn’t Just for Fun & Has Become a Problem

• It turns from a casual activity to an obsession, consuming every thought, e.g. what getting a farber hand in poker would feel like
• It becomes only about winning and less about the entire experience (e.g. the food, the friends and the game)
• You lose contact with your family and friends
• You experience financial hardship (e.g. getting into debt, not being able to repay loans, hiding losses from your spouse or family)
• You skip time with family or friends in favour of gambling
• You’re distracted at work because you’re thinking about the next game
• You’re “chasing the next win” so that you can pay your debts

How to Keep Gambling Fun & Enjoyable

• Expect to lose. Casinos are an extremely profitable business and that’s because the house wins more often than you do! Those who game bank on losing more often than winning.
• Set limits on time and money before placing any bets. Decide how long you’ll be there and how much you can afford to lose. It’s like going to an amusement park – you pay to play and once the money is spent, it’s time to go home.
• Keep engaged in other social and recreational activities—gaming is just one of many enjoyable pastimes.

​​Play with a Plan – Budget Your Money for Gaming and Entertainment

What to Do When Gambling Stops Being Fun & Financial Problems are Stressful