Problem gambling help, without judgment
You and your family are eligible for free or low-cost counseling with a licensed professional. Confidential support for problem gambling in Jericho, Nassau County, and across Long Island.
When gambling stops being a game
Gambling is any activity where something of value is risked for the chance of gaining something greater. For most people it stays an occasional pastime — but anyone involved in gambling can develop an addiction, and some groups (adolescents, veterans, aging adults, and Latino and Asian communities) face higher risk.
Problem gambling is often called the "hidden addiction" — unlike alcohol or drug abuse, there are rarely outward physical signs. In the DSM-5, the condition is classified as gambling disorder under substance-related and addictive disorders: persistent, recurrent problematic gambling leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
Warning signs
How can you tell when gambling has become more than an occasional amusement?
- Haunted by bill collectors, or gambling to escape worry, boredom, or trouble
- Gambling longer than originally planned, or disrupted sleep from thoughts of gambling
- Chasing losses — returning another day to win back what was lost
- Lying to conceal the extent of gambling, or borrowing money to gamble or repay debts
- Jeopardized a relationship, job, or opportunity because of gambling
- Restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop
Higher-risk groups: Adolescents · Veterans · Aging adults · Latino and Asian communities
Free or low-cost counseling
Through the NYS Problem Gambling Resource Center network, you and your family may be eligible for free or low-cost counseling with a licensed professional. If you're concerned that problem gambling is affecting you or someone you love, reach out — we'll connect you with the right help, confidentially.