Today, problem, compulsive, or pathological gambling is considered a form of an addictive illness.

Like an alcoholic who must abstain from all forms of alcohol, a problem gambler often comes to terms with the fact that he or she must stop gambling - for anything - at casinos, in office pools, lottery, friendly poker games, horses, dogs, sports, online and off; even a coin toss to determine who buys coffee or a beer, is believed to be a trigger which leads back to compulsiveness.

If you think you have a problem, take the 20 Questions Quiz on the right side of the page, and you'll know right away if you need to curb your gambling.

The Illinois Council on Problem Gambling is a Not-for-Profit Corporation. The Council is dependant upon outside contributions from State agencies, membership dues, private contributions and public donations to provide valuable services to the public.

When you make your donation to the ICPG, you will help fund programs designed to spread awareness of the dangers associated with problem gambling. Your donations will directly benefit programs aimed at educating students about the warning signs of problem gambling. Your membership and contributions are essential to the Council's programs throughout the community.

Donate Now!

If you think you have a problem, answer the "20 Questions" on the right and you'll know right away if you need to curb your gambling.

Many gamblers can stop or moderate their gambling without help. However, true problem gamblers always find themselves back in action. Older people gamble to escape grief, loneliness and boredom - what starts out to be a social event, such as a bus trip to a casino or a weekly bingo game may start to deplete needed survival funds.

In increasing numbers, young gamblers have discovered internet gambling, those who develop problems have been known to max out credit cards and spend tuition money. Problem gambling is not a selective illness. Anyone, no matter how innocent the circumstances, can get caught up in compulsive gambling. And yes, pathological gambling can lead to domestic abuse, divorce, poverty. homelessness, prison, and suicide.