Do I have a gambling problem? A 2-minute self-check
If you're asking whether you have a gambling problem, that's worth paying attention to. The Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen (BBGS) is three questions from the Division on Addiction at Cambridge Health Alliance. It isn't a diagnosis. It tells you whether it's time to talk to someone who can give you a proper assessment.
How it works
- Answer the three questions below about the past 12 months. Be honest. Nobody sees your answers.
- A yes to any one means you may be at risk and should get a fuller evaluation.
- Next step if you said yes: call or text 1-800-GAMBLER. It's free and confidential.
The three questions
Question 1
During the past 12 months, have you become restless, irritable or anxious when trying to stop/cut down on gambling?
Question 2
During the past 12 months, have you tried to keep your family or friends from knowing how much you gambled?
Question 3
During the past 12 months did you have such financial trouble as a result of your gambling that you had to get help with living expenses from family, friends or welfare?
Questions reproduced from the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen, Division on Addiction, Cambridge Health Alliance. You can also take it as their online screener.
If you answered yes to any question
Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER
Ask for an assessment or a gambling counselor. Many states pay for treatment. Your state page lists local help.
Lock the doors while you decide
Self-exclude in your state, at lifetime if offered, and in your apps. Install a blocker. You can do this before any assessment.
Tell one person
Question 2 is about hiding. I lied about money and where I was. Telling one person breaks that.
If you answered no to all three
That's a good sign, but it isn't a clean bill of health. The screen only covers three things. If gambling still worries you, or someone close to you is worried, try Gamblers Anonymous's 20 questions or talk to a counselor anyway.
Answering for someone else?
You can't answer for them, but you can ask them to take it with you. If you're worried about a partner or adult child, read signs your husband is gambling in secret or when your adult son or daughter gambles.
Common questions
Is this a diagnosis?
No. It's a screen. A yes means it's worth getting a proper assessment from a professional.
Who made the BBGS?
The Division on Addiction at Cambridge Health Alliance in Massachusetts. It's based on the diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder.
Are there longer tests?
Yes. Gamblers Anonymous has 20 questions on its website, and a counselor can do a full assessment.
I said yes. Now what?
Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER today, and look at your state page for self-exclusion and free counseling.