Pathological gamblers have a number of traits in common. Many are highly competitive, energetic, restless and easily bored. People with gambling addictions can be overly generous, concerned with the approval of others and workaholics.

The following signs or symptoms, when accompanied by gambling behavior, may indicate a gambling addiction:

• Family or relationship problems
• Financial problems
• Remorse about gambling
• Continued gambling despite efforts to quit
• Loss of control over gambling behavior
• Increased levels of betting
• Gambling to win back losses
• Gambling to feel better
• Gambling in secret
• Lying about gambling behavior
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Stealing money in order to gamble
• Arrest or imprisonment for criminal behavior