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.

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10 Questions About Gambling Behavior

1. Have you often gambled longer than you had planned?
2. Have you gambled until your last dollar was gone?
3. Have you had thoughts of gambling have caused you to lose sleep?
4. Have you used your income or savings to gamble while letting bills go unpaid?
5. Have you made repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling?
6. Have you broken the law or considered breaking the law to finance your gambling?
7. Have you borrowed money to finance your gambling?
8. Have you felt depressed or suicidal because of your gambling losses?
9. Have you been remorseful after gambling?
10. Have you gambled to get money to meet your financial obligations?

If you or someone you know answers Yes to any of these questions, consider seeking assistance from a professional regarding this gambling behavior by calling the National Problem Gambling Help Line Network toll free at (800) 522-4700 for confidential help throughout the U.S.