Has Gambling Become A Problem?

According to a Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) study in 2008, about 2.9% of the adult population may be experiencing problems related to their gambling.

Gambling addiction is a disease much like alcohol and drug addictions. Problem gamblers have difficulties controlling their gambling behaviour which increases over time in terms of frequency, time spent on gambling and money wagered. They are so preoccupied with gambling that it becomes the main activity in their lives. They may want to stop gambling but have difficulties doing so. Problem gamblers experience negative consequences related to gambling e.g. mounting debts, family problems and poor job performances. They continue to gamble in spite of these problems.

Signs of possible gambling problem

• Gambling more often
• Gambling for longer periods of time
• Gambling with larger amounts of money
• Gambling in spite of negative consequences e.g. huge losses, poor job performances, relationship problems
• Gambling to escape from emotional problems, worries or frustrations
• Telling lies to hide gambling and related problem 

Recognising gambling problems among your loved ones and friends

• Spending more time and money to gamble
• Borrowing money to gamble
• Stealing or committing other illegal acts to gamble
• Unexplained debts or financial problems
• Unexplained absences from work or school
• Missing important events to gamble
• Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling

Gambling Addiction Services

Our services are available to anyone who has concerns about his/her own or someone else’s gambling.

We provide comprehensive assessment and treatment to problem gamblers and significant others.