What is Problem Gambling
The term "problem gambling" pertains to a consistent gambling pattern negatively affecting gamblers and their loved ones. This behavior is marked by difficulty regulating or ceasing gambling despite experiencing detrimental effects on different aspects of their life, such as financial stability, personal relationships, mental health, and general well-being.
Problem gambling is not confined to a particular form of gambling, as it can occur in various activities like casino gambling, sports betting, online gambling, lottery games, or even excessive participation in gaming or mobile applications that involve gambling-like elements.
Where do People Gamble?
There are various types of gambling venues available. These include casinos, online gambling platforms, sports betting, racetracks, bingo halls, lottery retailers, online poker rooms, social clubs and bars, cruise ships, and private gambling gatherings among friends.
It is important to note that gambling addiction is a serious issue, and if you or someone you know is struggling with this problem, mental health treatment may be available at no cost to you (as an Affected Individual) and to them (as a Problem Gambler).
Can CalGETS Help You?
CalGETS is a program in California that assists individuals struggling with gambling-related problems. Their goal is to increase awareness of responsible gambling practices, provide education on problem gambling, and offer treatment services. They offer a helpline for information, support, and referrals to specialized gambling treatment providers.
CalGETS also provides counseling services, group therapy, and other treatment options to help individuals manage their gambling issues. Their main objective is to promote responsible gambling behavior, prevent gambling-related harm, and support those affected by problem gambling and their families.
Generally, individuals who may qualify for CalGETS services include:
California Residents: CalGETS serves California residents seeking help for gambling-related concerns.
Problem Gamblers: Individuals experiencing difficulties related to gambling behavior who want to address and overcome their gambling problems.
Affected Family Members: CalGETS also supports family members and loved ones impacted by someone else's gambling and seeking guidance or assistance in coping with the consequences.
Could You be Eligible for CalGETS?
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you qualify for services at no cost:
1. Have you ever tried to cut down or control your gambling?
2. Are you affected by someone unable to cut down or control their gambling?
3. Have you ever lied to family members, friends, or others about how much you gamble or how much money you lost gambling?
4. Are you affected by someone who lies to you or others about how much they gamble or by how much money they lost gambling?
5. Have there ever been periods lasting two weeks or longer when you spent much time thinking about your gambling experiences or planning future ventures or bets?
6. Does someone else's gambling experiences or gambling time affect you?
7. Do you find yourself making excuses for a gambler?
8. Do you find yourself bailing out a problem gambler, paying their bills, or lending them money?
Call today and make an appointment if you answered “yes” to any of the questions above.
Or, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
What Qualifies as Problem Gambling?
Here is a list of common types of gambling:
1. Poker
2. Blackjack
3. Pai-Gow
4. Slot Machines
5. Roulette
6. Craps
7. Video Poker
8. Internet slots/poker/Mahjong
9. Stock/Financial Market
10. Lottery/Lottery Tickets
11. Dog Racing
12. Horse Racing
13. Bingo
14. Dice
15. Baccarat
16. Candy Crush (gambling-like elements)
17. Online Video Gaming (gambling-like elements)
18. Facebook Games (gambling-like elements)
19. Fantasy Sports
Please note that some activities on the list, such as Candy Crush, online video gaming, and Facebook games, may involve gambling-like elements but are not considered traditional forms of gambling.