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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENTProblem Gambling and HealthFor many people, gambling turns into an addiction. The American Psychiatric Association defines pathological gambling (commonlycalled compulsive or problem gambling) as a mental health disorder of impulse control. Problem gamblers typically experience:• A progressive addiction characterized by a need to bet more money more frequently• Restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop• Chasing losses• Loss of control• Continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting serious, negative consequencesPrevalenceMore than 500,000 Floridians suffer from seriousor severe gambling difficulties. Millions more areadversely affected. Most never seek help becausethey fail to realize their illness is treatable. Manyturn to alcohol and drugs. Some present in mentalhealth and substance abuse clinics, physicianoffices, emergency rooms and elsewhere, complainingof anxiety, chest pain, headaches, highblood pressure, ulcers, hypertension, stomachaches,depression, insomnia, or other medicalconditions, none of which are ever identified asgambling related.Detection and InterventionThe best method for detecting whether a patientis suffering from a gambling problem is by askinga few questions.1. Do you gamble?2. Have you ever lied about how much you gamble?3. Have you ever felt the need to bet more andmore money?By answering yes to two questions, further assessmentis indicated and specialized treatmentshould be encouraged.24-Hour AssistanceFor more information or assistance, contact theFlorida Council on Compulsive Gambling’s 24-hourHelpLine, or visit us online, www.gamblinghelp.org.901 Douglas Ave, Suite 200Altamonte Springs, FL 32714888-ADMIT-ITFlorida Family Physician 11