chart of compulsive gambling and recovery

Winning Phase

• Occasional gambling
• Excitement
• Fantasies about winning
• Increased amounts bet
• Big win

Growth Phase

• New way of life
• Facing problems promptly
• Giving affection to others
• Preoccupation with gambling decreases
• Insight into self

Losing Phase

• Can't stop gambling
• Preoccupied with gambling
• Losing time from work
• Personality changes
• Heavy borrowing
• Careless about spouse/family
• Covering up/lying
• Bailouts

Rebuilding Phase

• Develop goals
• Self-respect returning
• Improved spouse & family relationships
• New interests
• Paying bills/budget

Desperation Phase

• Alienation from family & friends
• Marked increase in amount and time spent gambling
• Illegal acts
• Panic
• Remorse

Critical Phase

• Responsible thinking
• Decision making
• Hopeful
• Realistic, stops gambling
• Honest desire for help