Gambling can be a fun activity for those who understand its potential to become an addiction. By keeping gambling in perspective as a form of entertainment, you can reduce the chances that you’ll become addicted. Here are some warning signs that could signal you’re becoming a problem gambler, someone who is unable to place reasonable limits on their gambling activities.

• Lying about gambling. One warning sign is dishonesty about how much you gamble. Telling your family and friends you’re going to the mall and then sneaking off to a casino is a potential problem.
• New financial problems. If you’re suddenly having trouble making ends meet between paychecks, ask yourself how much money you’ve spent on gambling in the last couple of weeks. It’s a good strategy to keep a written record of how much money you put into gambling know when you’ve hit your limit. (Be sure to establish a reasonable limit from the beginning.)
• Unable to concentrate because you’re thinking about playing. Being distracted at work because you can’t stop thinking about your new poker strategy is going to cause some serious problems. You need to learn to direct your mind away from gambling when you’re away from the computer or casino. Then, when it is time to play, you can fully enjoy immersing yourself in the experience.
• Increased alcohol consumption. Instead of thinking about the money you’ve spent on gambling you pop open (more than) a few beers. If you’re using alcohol or any other substance to escape the realities that a potential gambling addiction has caused, you may need counseling.

The good news is that few people who gamble develop a serious problem. For those who do, there’s counseling and mental health professionals who can help you regain control of your life.