Gambling is meant to be fun. If it starts to feel overwhelming, it might be time to check in. Tribes in Washington are committed to educating the public about healthy gaming limits. If you’re wondering about what’s healthy and what might be a sign for you or a loved one to slow down, the resources below can help. Support is always available, and you’re not alone.
Call or text the Washington State Problem Gambling Helpline now: 1-800-547-6133
Here are some common signs of unhealthy gambling:
- Using credit cards to acquire funds to gamble
- Bragging about or hiding gambling activity
- Lying about wins or losses
- A growing preoccupation with gambling, where to get money to gamble with, or what to say to explain gambling losses of money or time
- A need to bet more money, more frequently
- Restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop
- “Chasing” after wins, resulting in greater losses
- Losing track of time while gambling
- Neglecting family members in order to gamble
- Loss of control in spite of mounting negative consequences
Source: Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling
Knowing the signs and symptoms of problem gambling can help you ask the right questions to inform if you or a loved one should seek additional support. Here are some quick quizzes to assess gambling behavior:
- 3 Question Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen
- Gamblers Anonymous 20 Questions
- Problem Gambling Severity Index
Support and resources around healthy gambling are always available for your or your loved one. Take the first step and connect with Washington’s 24/7 confidential problem gambling Helpline – a trained Helpline Specialist will always answer the phone and speak with you. Call or text the 24-hour Helpline at 1-800-547-6133 to get started. It’s never too late.
Washington Tribes Care
Learn more about how Tribes in Washington work together to support and promote responsible gaming.

