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Warning-sign checks

Compulsive gambling: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help for suicidal intent, a suicide plan, recent self-harm, threats of violence, or an immediate inability to remain safe.

    A financial crisis without immediate danger still needs timely support, but it is usually addressed through routine healthcare, gambling-treatment, debt-advice, and social services rather than an emergency department.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a healthcare professional or treatment service promptly if gambling is escalating, previous safeguards are being bypassed, essential bills cannot be paid, or depression and substance use are worsening.

    Prompt review is also appropriate if gambling urges begin suddenly after starting or changing a medicine.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up helps maintain progress after gambling has stopped or decreased.

    Appointments may review urges, access to money, mood, substance use, relationships, debt, and how well practical safeguards are working.

    Some people benefit from longer-term therapy or peer support because urges can return during stress or after exposure to gambling advertising.

The article also says

A recovery plan can identify personal warning signs, such as checking odds, hiding spending, borrowing money, or thinking that one win will solve financial problems.

It should also list people and services to contact before gambling resumes.

Family members can support recovery without taking responsibility for curing the condition.

They may protect shared finances, avoid lending money for gambling, encourage treatment, and seek their own confidential support.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Compulsive gambling. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.