The Health Consequences of Gambling Addiction: What You Need to Know

Many people who gamble casually for entertainment may not realize the serious consequences faced by those suffering from disordered gambling. Beyond financial struggles, strained relationships, and career setbacks, problem gambling can also take a toll on physical, psychological, and emotional health. Issues such as chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and heart problems are common, highlighting that the impact extends far beyond money. For many people caught in the cycle of gambling wins and losses, it becomes difficult to step away—even for basic needs like using the restroom or getting a drink of water. In extreme cases, some individuals have gone so far as to wear adult diapers to avoid leaving a machine or game unattended, fearing that someone else might take their spot.

When someone is in the midst of a problem gambling episode, their body often enters a fight-or-flight state. They remain on edge, anticipating the next win that may never come. This constant cycle fuels high levels of excitement and stress, leaving little room for relaxation, enjoyment, or meaningful social interaction. Compounding the problem is the effort required to maintain the lies that hide the extent of their gambling. For many, dishonesty becomes a survival mechanism, and over time, pathological lying can develop—even in those who never engaged in deceit before—allowing the addiction to remain hidden and unchecked.

Problem Gambling Behavioral Stress Symptoms:

• Changes in appetite—either not eating or eating too much
• Gambling more
• Hoarding or overspending money
• Procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities
• Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes
• Displaying nervous behaviors, such as nail biting, fidgeting, and pacing
• Staying away from home more
• Starting arguments
• Lying in order to get money to gamble

If not faced and worked on, living in a constant state of stress can have a serious effect on your life, body, and well-being. Here are some examples:

• Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders
• Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and strokes
• Gastrointestinal problems, gastritis, ulcerative colitis, and irritable colon
• Back and shoulder problems
• Obesity and other eating disorders
• Not eating enough
• Indigestion
• Menstrual problems
• Sexual dysfunction in both men and women
• Skin and hair problems, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, and permanent hair loss

If you think you or a loved one are experiencing the above symptoms because of a gambling problem, there is help available. If you are looking for support and answers, please call or text the Florida Problem Gambling HelpLine at 888-ADMIT-IT. Specialists who understand the impacts of gambling addiction are standing by 24/7 to connect you with free resources that will help you through these stressful times and provide hope for recovery.

Did You Know? September is Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM)

Even if you aren’t experiencing the symptoms above, knowing the steps to responsible gambling and the differences from problem gambling is key. Each September, Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM) brings together advocates, operators, and communities to promote gambling literacy and consumer education. Led nationally by the American Gaming Association and supported in the Sunshine State by the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG), this year’s theme—Play Smart from the Start—encourages anyone who chooses to gamble to understand the risks, set personal limits, and make informed choices from day one.

Learn more, see the differences between responsible gambling and problem gambling, and create your own Play Smart Plan for free on our RGEM Microsite!