Do I Have a Gambling Addiction?
This free self-assessment is based on the criteria used by mental health professionals to evaluate gambling disorder. Answer 10 questions honestly to understand your risk level.
Question 1
Have you needed to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement?
Based on criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This quiz is not a clinical diagnosis.
Understanding the DSM-5 Criteria
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is the standard reference used by mental health professionals to diagnose behavioral and mental health conditions, including gambling disorder. This quiz is based on the 9 clinical criteria outlined in the DSM-5:
- Tolerance — needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money
- Withdrawal — feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
- Loss of control — repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back
- Preoccupation — frequently thinking about gambling
- Escape — gambling to cope with stress or negative emotions
- Chasing losses — returning to win back money after losing
- Lying — concealing the extent of gambling from others
- Jeopardizing relationships — risking or losing important relationships, jobs, or opportunities
- Financial bailout — relying on others to cover gambling debts
Meeting 4 or more criteria within a 12-month period indicates a gambling disorder diagnosis. If you are concerned about your results, find professional resources here.
What Your Score Means
Your quiz score corresponds to one of three risk levels, each with recommended next steps:
Low Risk (0–3 criteria)
Your responses suggest a low risk. Continue monitoring your gambling habits and set time and spending limits as a precaution.
Moderate Risk (4–5 criteria)
Your responses suggest a moderate risk. Consider speaking with a counselor and using a gambling blocker to limit access to gambling sites.
High Risk (6+ criteria)
Your responses suggest a high risk for gambling disorder. We strongly encourage you to seek professional help, consider self-exclusion programs, and call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorder?
The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition) lists 9 criteria for gambling disorder: tolerance, withdrawal, loss of control, preoccupation, escape, chasing losses, lying, jeopardizing relationships, and financial bailout. Meeting 4 or more criteria within a 12-month period indicates a gambling disorder diagnosis.
Is an online gambling addiction quiz accurate?
Online quizzes based on DSM-5 criteria can be a helpful screening tool, but they are not a substitute for a clinical diagnosis. They can help you identify warning signs and decide whether to seek professional evaluation. Only a licensed mental health professional can provide an official gambling disorder diagnosis.
What should I do if I score high on a gambling addiction quiz?
If you score high, consider contacting the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 (available 24/7), speaking with a mental health professional experienced with gambling disorders, enrolling in a self-exclusion program, and using tools like Detachr to block gambling sites while you seek support.
Can gambling addiction be treated?
Yes. Gambling disorder is highly treatable. Effective treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, support groups like Gamblers Anonymous, medication in some cases, and digital recovery tools. Research shows that most people who seek treatment for gambling disorder experience significant improvement.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. If you are experiencing a gambling problem, please contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or consult a qualified professional.
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