At Casino Compare, we prioritize responsible gambling and believe that it’s crucial for players to be aware of the potential risks associated with gambling. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs of gambling addiction, its impact on individuals and families, and strategies for managing and seeking help for this condition in the Philippines.


Gambling Addiction Help Contacts in the Philippines


If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction in the Philippines, there are several resources and helplines available to provide support, guidance, and assistance. Here are some organizations and contacts that offer help for gambling addiction in the Philippines:

Bridges of Hope 

Bridges of Hope is a non-profit organization accredited by PAGCOR that provides addiction treatment and rehabilitation services in the Philippines. The organization operates multiple treatment centers and facilities across the Philippines, offering a range of programs and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals battling addiction.

Contact: https://bridgesofhope.com.ph/index.php/contact-us-2/

Gamblers Anonymous Philippines 

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is a fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strengths, and hope to help each other recover from gambling addiction. Meetings are held regularly in various locations across the Philippines. Visit their website or contact them for meeting schedules and locations.

Email: info@gaphilippines.org

Telephone:

Zita: 0917-311-2232
Dann: 0927-223-3963
Reagan: 0917-509-4080

Life Change Recovery Center


Life Change Recovery Center Philippines is a PAGCOR-accredited rehabilitation facility that specializes in providing treatment and support for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. It offers a range of comprehensive programs and services designed to help individuals achieve lasting recovery and improve their quality of life.

Email: lifechange.lcrc@gmail.com

Telephone: +63 234 156 529


What Is Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a complex and debilitating condition characterized by the inability to control or resist the urge to gamble despite negative consequences. It goes beyond mere enjoyment of gambling activities and escalates into a compulsive behavior that adversely affects various aspects of an individual’s life.

Those struggling with gambling addiction often experience a powerful urge to gamble, leading to excessive time and money spent on gambling activities. This can result in severe financial problems, strained relationships, and significant emotional distress. Despite mounting losses and negative consequences, individuals with gambling addiction find it challenging to stop or control their gambling behavior.

Problem Gambling vs. Gambling Addiction

“Problem gambling” and “gambling addiction” are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different aspects of gambling-related issues.

Problem gambling refers to any gambling behavior that disrupts or damages one or more aspects of an individual’s life. It encompasses a spectrum of behaviors, ranging from occasional excessive gambling to more severe forms of compulsive gambling. Problem gambling may not meet the clinical criteria for a diagnosable gambling disorder but still causes significant negative consequences for the individual and those around them.

Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a more severe form of problematic gambling behavior. It meets the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association.

Key characteristics of gambling addiction include:

  1. Compulsive Behavior: Individuals with gambling addiction experience an overwhelming urge to gamble, often leading to uncontrollable gambling behavior.
  2. Loss of Control: Despite repeated attempts to cut back or stop gambling, individuals with gambling addiction find it difficult to control their gambling habits.
  3. Preoccupation with Gambling: Thoughts of gambling dominate the individual’s mind, leading to obsessive planning of gambling activities and strategies.
  4. Tolerance and Withdrawal: Like other addictive disorders, gambling addiction may involve tolerance (needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement) and withdrawal symptoms (experiencing restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut back or stop gambling).

Types of Gambling Problems


Types of gambling problems can vary in severity and manifestation, but they generally fall into several categories:

Problematic Gambling Patterns

This category encompasses behaviors such as chasing losses, placing bets with money needed for essential expenses, and being unable to stick to pre-set limits. Problematic gambling patterns often lead to financial difficulties, strained relationships, and emotional distress.

Binge Gambling

Binge gambling involves episodes of intense and excessive gambling behavior, often characterized by extended periods of time spent gambling and significant financial losses within a short period. Binge gambling may result from impulsive behavior or heightened emotional states.

Escapism and Coping Mechanisms

Some individuals turn to gambling as a way to escape from stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions. Gambling provides a temporary distraction and a perceived sense of relief, but it can exacerbate underlying issues and lead to a cycle of compulsive behavior.

Co-occurring Substance Abuse

Gambling problems often coexist with substance abuse disorders. Individuals may use alcohol or drugs to enhance the gambling experience or cope with the consequences of their gambling behavior. The combination of gambling and substance abuse can worsen overall functioning and increase the risk of addiction.

Online Gambling Addiction

With the proliferation of online gambling platforms, a growing number of individuals are experiencing problems related to excessive online gambling. The accessibility and convenience of online gambling make it particularly prone to addictive behavior, as individuals can gamble anytime and anywhere using electronic devices.

Problem Gambling in Specific Populations

Certain demographic groups may be more susceptible to gambling problems. For example, teenagers and young adults are increasingly engaging in gambling activities, often due to peer pressure, curiosity, or exposure to gambling advertisements. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may be at higher risk of developing gambling problems as a form of self-medication.

Compulsive Gambling Disorder

At the most severe end of the spectrum, compulsive gambling disorder, also known as gambling addiction, is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite negative consequences. Individuals with gambling addiction experience significant impairment in various areas of life, including finances, relationships, and mental health.


Gambling Addiction in the Philippines

According to studies conducted by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Department of Health (DOH), the prevalence of gambling addiction in the Philippines varies depending on the region and demographic factors. Estimates suggest that between 1% to 3% of the adult population may experience gambling-related problems.

Certain demographic groups may be disproportionately affected by gambling addiction. Studies have shown that individuals with lower socioeconomic status, limited education, and pre-existing mental health conditions may be at higher risk of developing gambling problems. Filipinos have a strong cultural affinity for gambling, with various forms of gambling deeply embedded in social and recreational activities. Popular forms of gambling in the Philippines include cockfighting (sabong), traditional casino games, lottery, and illegal numbers games (jueteng). This cultural acceptance of gambling may contribute to higher rates of gambling addiction.

The surge of online gambling has also contributed to the rise of gambling addiction in the country. A survey conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found that around 10% of Filipino internet users have engaged in online gambling activities, raising concerns about the potential for increased gambling addiction rates.

Myths About Gambling Addiction in the Philippines

Myth 1: Gambling addiction is not a serious problem in the Philippines.

Fact: Contrary to this belief, gambling addiction is a significant issue in the Philippines, with a growing number of individuals experiencing problems related to excessive gambling. The prevalence of gambling addiction is often underestimated due to stigma, lack of awareness, and cultural attitudes towards gambling.

Myth 2: Only individuals with low socioeconomic status are affected by gambling addiction.

Fact: Gambling addiction can affect individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds. While financial stressors may contribute to gambling problems for some individuals, others may develop addiction due to factors such as psychological vulnerabilities, social influences, or genetic predispositions.

Myth 3: Gambling addiction is just a matter of poor self-control.

Fact: Gambling addiction is a complex disorder with biological, psychological, and social determinants. While self-control plays a role in managing gambling behavior, addiction involves changes in brain chemistry and neural pathways that impair decision-making and impulse control.

Myth 4: Gambling addiction only affects men.

Fact: While men are more commonly associated with gambling addiction, women are also susceptible to developing gambling problems. Gender differences in gambling preferences and behaviors may contribute to the underrepresentation of women in gambling addiction statistics.

Myth 5: People with gambling addiction can simply stop if they want to.

Fact: Gambling addiction is not simply a matter of willpower or choice. It is a recognized mental health disorder characterized by compulsive behavior and altered brain function. Individuals with gambling addiction may want to stop or cut back on their gambling but find it difficult to do so without professional help and support.

Myth 6: Gambling addiction only involves traditional forms of gambling, such as casinos and betting shops.

Fact: With the rise of online gambling and mobile betting apps, gambling addiction can manifest in various forms, including online casinos, sports betting, and virtual slot machines. The accessibility and convenience of online gambling make it particularly prone to addictive behavior.

Myth 7: Seeking help for gambling addiction is shameful and embarrassing.

Fact: Seeking help for gambling addiction is a courageous step towards recovery and should be encouraged and supported. There are various resources and treatment options available, including therapy, support groups, and helplines, where individuals can receive confidential and non-judgmental assistance.

Teenage Gambling in the Philippines

Gambling addiction among teenagers is a growing concern in the Philippines, where access to gambling activities is widespread and cultural acceptance of gambling is prevalent. Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to developing gambling problems due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Easy Access to Gambling Venues

In the Philippines, gambling venues such as casinos, cockfighting arenas (sabong), and online gambling platforms are easily accessible, often located near schools, residential areas, and entertainment districts. The proximity of these venues increases the likelihood of teenagers being exposed to gambling activities at an early age.

Exposure to Advertising and Marketing

Teenagers in the Philippines are exposed to extensive advertising and marketing campaigns promoting gambling products and services. These advertisements often glamorize gambling and create the perception that gambling is a glamorous and socially acceptable activity.

Peer Influence

Peer pressure plays a significant role in teenage gambling behavior. Teenagers may engage in gambling activities to fit in with their peers, gain social acceptance, or seek approval from their social circles. Group gambling activities, such as card games or sports betting, are common among teenagers and can normalize gambling behavior.

Family Influence

Family dynamics and parental attitudes towards gambling can influence teenage gambling behavior. Growing up in households where gambling is prevalent or perceived as a harmless activity may increase the likelihood of teenagers experimenting with gambling. Additionally, teenagers may model their behavior after family members who gamble excessively.

Socioeconomic Status

Socioeconomic factors can also contribute to teenage gambling behavior. Teenagers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be more vulnerable to gambling addiction due to financial stressors, lack of access to recreational activities, and limited educational opportunities. Gambling may be seen as a way to escape from poverty or financial hardship.

Psychological Vulnerabilities

Teenagers with underlying psychological vulnerabilities, such as depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, may be more susceptible to developing gambling problems as a form of self-medication or coping mechanism. Gambling provides temporary relief from negative emotions but can lead to addictive behavior over time.

Online Gambling

The rise of online gambling platforms has made gambling more accessible to teenagers, who can easily access gambling websites and mobile betting apps using smartphones and electronic devices. Online gambling offers anonymity, convenience, and a wide range of betting options, making it particularly appealing to teenagers.


Consequences of Gambling Addiction

The consequences of gambling addiction can be far-reaching and affect various aspects of an individual’s life, as well as the lives of their loved ones. Here are some common consequences:

Financial Problems

One of the most immediate and severe consequences of gambling addiction is financial distress. Individuals may accumulate substantial debts, deplete savings, borrow money from friends or family, or resort to illegal means to finance their gambling habits. Financial instability can lead to bankruptcy, loss of assets, and strained relationships with creditors.

Relationship Issues

Gambling addiction often strains relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners. The secrecy, deceit, and financial strain associated with gambling can erode trust and communication within relationships, leading to conflicts, arguments, and breakdowns in familial and social support systems.

Emotional Distress

Gambling addiction can take a significant toll on an individual’s mental health and emotional well-being. Feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression are common among individuals struggling with gambling addiction. The stress of hiding gambling behavior, dealing with financial problems, and facing consequences can exacerbate existing mental health issues or trigger new ones.

Physical Health Problems

The stress and anxiety associated with gambling addiction can manifest in physical health problems such as insomnia, headaches, digestive issues, and cardiovascular problems. Individuals may neglect their physical health, skip meals, or engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse to cope with the emotional distress caused by gambling addiction.

Legal Issues

In extreme cases, gambling addiction can lead to legal troubles, particularly if individuals resort to illegal activities such as theft, fraud, or embezzlement to fund their gambling habits. Legal consequences may include arrest, criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment, further exacerbating the individual’s problems and complicating their recovery journey.

Employment and Educational Challenges

Gambling addiction can interfere with an individual’s ability to fulfill their responsibilities at work, school, or other commitments. Absenteeism, poor performance, and disciplinary issues may arise, jeopardizing employment opportunities, academic achievements, and future prospects.

Social Isolation

Individuals struggling with gambling addiction may withdraw from social activities, hobbies, and interpersonal relationships as their focus increasingly revolves around gambling. The shame, embarrassment, and stigma associated with addiction may lead to social withdrawal, isolation, and a sense of alienation from friends, family, and the community.

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

The emotional distress and despair experienced by individuals with gambling addiction can sometimes lead to suicidal ideation or attempts. Feelings of hopelessness, desperation, and worthlessness may intensify as the consequences of gambling addiction escalate, putting individuals at risk of self-harm or suicide.


How to Identify Gambling Addiction: Signs & Symptoms

Identifying gambling addiction involves recognizing the signs and symptoms of problematic gambling behavior. Here are some common indicators:

Preoccupation with Gambling

A persistent preoccupation with gambling, including frequent thoughts about past gambling experiences, planning future gambling sessions, or strategizing ways to obtain money for gambling.

Increased Time and Money Spent on Gambling

Spending excessive amounts of time and money on gambling activities, neglecting other responsibilities, hobbies, or social activities to prioritize gambling.

Chasing Losses

Continuously gambling in an attempt to recoup previous losses, often leading to further financial and emotional distress.

Loss of Control

Difficulty controlling or limiting gambling behavior, such as unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling, even when aware of its negative consequences.

Lying About Gambling

Concealing the extent of gambling activities from friends, family members, or loved ones, or lying about the amount of time or money spent on gambling.

Borrowing or Stealing Money

Resorting to borrowing money, taking out loans, or engaging in illegal activities such as theft or fraud to finance gambling habits.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Neglecting work, school, household chores, or other obligations due to gambling, resulting in decreased performance, absenteeism, or disciplinary issues.

Relationship Strain

Experiencing conflicts, arguments, or tension within relationships due to gambling, including strained relationships with family members, friends, or romantic partners.

Mood Swings

Fluctuations in mood, such as irritability, anxiety, depression, or euphoria, often associated with gambling wins or losses.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing restlessness, agitation, or irritability when attempting to cut back or stop gambling, similar to withdrawal symptoms observed in substance abuse disorders.

Continued Gambling Despite Negative Consequences

Persisting with gambling activities despite experiencing adverse consequences, such as financial problems, relationship conflicts, legal issues, or deteriorating mental health.

Escalation of Gambling Behavior

Gradual escalation of gambling behavior over time, including an increase in the frequency and intensity of gambling activities or the exploration of new forms of gambling.


Stages of Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction typically progresses through several stages, each characterized by distinct behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Understanding these stages can help individuals recognize the development of problematic gambling behavior and take proactive steps to seek help and support.

Optimistic Phase

During this initial stage, individuals approach gambling with optimism and enthusiasm. Gambling may begin as a recreational activity or a way to relieve stress and have fun. Wins during this stage reinforce positive feelings and may lead to increased gambling activity.

Frustration and Apprehension

As gambling continues, individuals may start experiencing frustration and apprehension. Losses become more frequent, leading to feelings of disappointment, regret, and anxiety. Despite negative outcomes, individuals may continue to gamble in the hope of recovering losses or experiencing another win.

Compulsive Phase

In this stage, gambling becomes a compulsive and uncontrollable behavior. Individuals feel compelled to gamble regardless of the consequences, such as financial problems, strained relationships, or legal issues. Gambling takes precedence over other responsibilities and activities, leading to neglect of work, family, and personal well-being.


Can Gambling Addiction Be Treated?

Yes, gambling addiction can be treated, and many individuals have successfully overcome their gambling problems with the right support and intervention. Treatment for gambling addiction typically involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, support groups, and lifestyle changes.


Tips to Overcome a Gambling Problem

Overcoming a gambling problem requires dedication, commitment, and support. Here are some tips to help individuals address and overcome their gambling addiction:

Acknowledge the Problem

The first step in overcoming a gambling problem is acknowledging its existence. Admitting that gambling has become a problem and accepting responsibility for its consequences is essential for initiating change.

Seek Professional Help

Consider reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional who specializes in treating gambling addiction. Professional support can provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and personalized treatment plans to address underlying issues contributing to the addiction.

Join a Support Group

Participating in support groups can provide a sense of community, understanding, and encouragement from others who have experienced similar struggles. Sharing experiences, attending meetings regularly, and following the program’s principles can help individuals stay motivated and committed to recovery.

Set Limits and Boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries and limits around gambling behavior is crucial for regaining control. Set specific financial limits, time restrictions, and access restrictions to gambling venues or online gambling platforms. Stick to these boundaries rigorously to prevent relapse.

Identify Triggers and Avoidance Strategies

Identify triggers or high-risk situations that may lead to gambling urges, such as stress, boredom, or social pressure. Develop alternative coping strategies and healthy distractions to manage cravings and redirect focus away from gambling.

Address Underlying Issues

Explore and address any underlying issues or co-occurring mental health conditions that may contribute to gambling addiction, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance abuse. Seek professional help to develop coping mechanisms and strategies for managing these issues effectively.

Financial Management

Take proactive steps to manage finances responsibly and avoid further financial harm. Create a budget, prioritize essential expenses, and seek assistance from a financial counselor or advisor if needed. Avoid borrowing money or using credit cards for gambling purposes.

Build a Support Network

Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, and mentors who understand your struggles and offer encouragement and assistance. Openly communicate with your support network about your goals, progress, and challenges in overcoming gambling addiction.