The University of Missouri's Keeping the Score website — gambling.missouri.edu — lists some of the problem gambling signs to look for in family member or friend:
• Frequent unexplained absences from classes or work
• Sudden drop in grades
• Progressive preoccupation with gambling
• Unusual interest in newspapers, magazines or periodicals having to do with horseracing and stocks
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Visible changes in behavior (such as mood changes or behavior problems)
• Increased use of gambling language, including the word “bet” in conversations
• Talks more about wins and tries to hide gambling losses
• Loss of interest in non-gambling activities
• Neglects personal hygiene
• Decline in health, increased symptoms of depression
• Lies about engaging in gambling behavior either commission or omission
• Feels compelled to “chase” losses
• Attempts unsuccessfully to cut back
• Gambles to escape worry or problems
• Unexplained absence of household and personal items