Problem Gambling
While the vast majority of people can gamble for fun and entertainment, other individuals can experience significant problems related to gambling. In rare cases, some individuals may suffer from a gambling disorder. Gambling disorder is an addiction characterized by an individual’s increased preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money frequently, and restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, in spite of mounting, serious, and negative consequences.
It’s important to be mindful of how gambling is affecting you. Below are warning signs to look out for and pay attention to. If you experience one or more of the following, it may be time to take a break and/or reach out for help.
Problem Gambling Warning Signs:
1. Sacrificing time from work or family in order to gamble
2. Difficulty maintaining control of your gambling
3. Borrowing money to gamble or to pay off previous bets
4. Using gambling to escape the pressures of life and work
5. Neglecting yourself or your family in order to gamble
6. Lying about time or money lost to betting
7. Gambling more in order to recoup previous losses ("chasing")
8. Obtaining money for gambling by selling/pawning personal property
9. Stealing or committing any kind of crime in order to fund your gambling
10. Feelings of hopelessness, depression, or suicide
Problem Gambling Screener
If you're unsure about seeking help for your gambling, you can take a brief e-screener, which is available through Harvard Medical School's Cambridge Health Alliance. This screener can be accessed on Cambridge Health Alliance's website.
Kindbridge Counseling Services
If you're interested in speaking with a professional about gambling concerns, you can schedule an appointment through our trusted partner, Kindbridge Behavioral Health. By clicking the link above, you'll be directed to a third-party website. Please note that all content and services on the third-party site are managed independently of BetMGM and are used at your discretion.
Help works
Seeking help for a gambling problem isn’t easy, but for those affected, it could be one of the best decisions they ever make. This critical first step can set you on a recovery path to living a healthy and fulfilling life.
Underage gambling
BetMGM prohibits underage individuals from using its products and services. If you’re aware of anyone under the legal age attempting to play or use our services, or of someone assisting an underage person in gambling, we encourage you to contact our Customer Care team to report the situation. Send an email to support.on@betmgm.ca.
Self-Exclusion
If you’re experiencing difficulties associated with gambling, a Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program could be a great way to help regain control. Each program varies. Please see the information here to learn about voluntary self-exclusion and other problem-gambling resources in your area.