What Is "Problem Gambling?"

“Problem Gambling” is gambling behavior that causes disruption in a person's life and can be mental, physical, social and/or work-related. Problem gambling includes a progressive addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control with continued gambling in spite of serious, negative consequences. Underage gambling also represents a form of problem gambling. 

This year, between 6 to 8 million American adults will meet the criteria for problem gambling. Because it has genetic and behavioral components, it is considered a mental health and public health issue. While the ultimate responsibility for an individual's gambling problem is his or her own, the gaming industry, including vendors, has a role in addressing this issue as well. Wind Creek Hospitality is committed to addressing problem gambling so this behavior does not harm our Guests, our employees or our community.

How To Identify Problem Gambling

These 10 questions have been developed to help individuals determine whether they have a gambling problem:

• Have you used your income or savings to gamble while letting bills go unpaid?
• Have you ever gambled to escape from personal problems or to relieve uncomfortable feelings such as guilt, anxiety, helplessness or depression?
• Have you lied to family members, friends or others about how much you gamble, and/or about how much money you lost?
• Has gambling created conflict and unhappiness in your relationships with family or friends? Has gambling caused problems for you at work or school?
• Have you been preoccupied with thoughts of your gambling experiences or planning future gambling bets or ways of getting money to gamble with?
• Have you made repeated and unsuccessful attempts to stop, cut down or control your gambling?
• Have you ever broken the law or considered breaking the law to finance your gambling?
• Have you ever written a bad check, taken money that didn't belong to you or borrowed money to finance your gambling?
• Have you often gambled until your last dollar was gone?
• Have you gambled to get money to pay debts or to attempt to solve other financial problems?

How To Get Help

If you or someone you know answers "Yes" to any of these questions, consider seeking assistance from a professional regarding gambling behavior by calling the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network at 1-800-522-4700. This call is toll-free and confidential throughout the U.S. Because we care about you, PCI Gaming encourages you to please play responsibly and set limits before you start.