Gambling Addiction Test: Do I Have a Gambling Problem?

Do I have a gambling problem? For many people, a bet is just entertainment. For others, gambling slowly takes over: chasing losses, hiding debts, and feeling restless when they are not playing. Online casinos and sports betting apps have made it easier than ever to gamble at any hour. This free, confidential gambling addiction test has 18 short questions and takes about three minutes. At the end you will see what your answers suggest and what to consider next.

Take the gambling addiction test

Answer each question honestly, based on the past year. You do not need to give your name or email.

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Gambling Addiction Self-Assessment Quiz

This self-assessment is designed to offer insight into your gambling habits and how they may be affecting your life. It’s important to remember, however, that this quiz is not a medical or clinical assessment. If your responses suggest you might be experiencing issues with gambling, or if you’re concerned about your gambling, we’re here to support you. We can provide a more thorough evaluation and discuss a range of treatment options tailored to your needs. Seeking help is a positive step towards understanding your relationship with gambling and making any changes that could improve your quality of life. Reach out today for confidential support.

1 / 18

Have you ever thought about suicide because of complications due to gambling?

Yes

No

2 / 18

Do you lose sleep because of gambling?

Yes

No

3 / 18

Do you ever do without basic necessities in order to finance your gambling?

Yes

No

4 / 18

Do you ever feel bad or guilty after gambling?

Yes

No

5 / 18

When you win money gambling, do you crave another chance to win even more?

Yes

No

6 / 18

When you lose money gambling, do you think the solution is to gamble more and gain back your losses?

Yes

No

7 / 18

Have you ever lied to conceal how often you gamble or how much money you spend?

Yes

No

8 / 18

Have you ever sold an item in order to have money for gambling?

Yes

No

9 / 18

Has gambling affected your family, schooling, or job?

Yes

No

10 / 18

Have you ever borrowed or stolen in order to finance gambling?

Yes

No

11 / 18

Have other people had to bail you out of debts due to gambling?

Yes

No

12 / 18

Do you want to celebrate good news or positive feelings by gambling?

Yes

No

13 / 18

Do you ever gamble to relieve stress, frustration, worry, or other negative feelings?

Yes

No

14 / 18

Do you often gamble until you run out of money?

Yes

No

15 / 18

Do you need to wager increasing amounts of money in order to feel good, satisfied, or calm?

Yes

No

16 / 18

Have you tried unsuccessfully to stop gambling?

Yes

No

17 / 18

Do you think about gambling often, even when far away from potential gambling situations?

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

18 / 18

Do you sometimes spend more money or time than you plan to on gambling?

Yes

No

Restart quiz

The results are not a diagnosis. If your answers raise concerns, a confidential conversation with a professional can help you understand what is going on.

What is gambling addiction?

Gambling addiction, also called gambling disorder or compulsive gambling, is a pattern of gambling that continues despite serious harm to finances, work and relationships. It is recognized as a behavioral addiction in the DSM-5, the diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals. It affects the brain’s reward system in ways similar to drugs and alcohol.

Common signs of a gambling problem

• Needing to bet more and more money to feel the same excitement
• Chasing losses, trying to win back money you have lost
• Lying to family about how much you gamble or how much you have lost
• Borrowing money, selling things or using savings to keep gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down
• Gambling to escape stress, guilt, anxiety or low mood

Worried about someone you love?

Gambling debts are often hidden until a crisis. If you are paying debts or covering for a loved one, read about enabling versus taking responsibility, or take our self-test for family members.

Getting help

Retorno, an addiction treatment center near Beit Shemesh, Israel, founded in 1998, treats gambling addiction in its residential program, in English, with separate programs for men and women and a fully kosher community. Read more about Jewish gambling rehab in Israel, or take our pathological liar test if lying has become part of the problem.

Frequently asked questions

Is gambling addiction a real addiction?

Yes. Gambling disorder is recognized in the DSM-5 as a behavioral addiction. It involves loss of control and continuing to gamble despite serious harm.

How do I know if I have a gambling problem?

Signs include chasing losses, betting more to feel the same excitement, hiding your gambling, and borrowing money to keep playing. This test can help you take an honest look, and a professional can give you a clearer answer.

Can gambling addiction be treated?

Yes. Treatment usually combines individual and group therapy, practical steps to protect finances, and support for the family. Many people recover and rebuild their lives.

Is this gambling addiction test confidential?

Yes. The test is free, and you do not need to give your name or email to take it.