September is National Suicide Prevention Month. This month is a good time to have the conversation about the relationship between suicide and problem gambling/gambling addiction.
Did you know that nearly 50% of people struggling with a gambling problem/ disorder have had thoughts of suicide?
Individuals addicted to gambling have an increased chance of risk-taking behavior which coincides with a high rate of suicidal ideation/thoughts. Many of the warning signs for risk of suicide are applicable to the devastation experienced by a problem gambler.
Risk factors and warning signs include, but are not limited to:
-Loss: i.e. financial loss, loss of valuable relationships (family/friends), loss of self-esteem
-Feeling of Hopelessness
-Feeling of Helplessness
-Coping with mental health and or substance abuse issues
-Being a burden to others
-Feeling trapped
-Unbearable pain
-Isolation
-Loneliness
Hope and help are a phone call away.
If you or a family member are feeling suicidal or are making plans to end your life, get help right away.
-Call, Chat or text the Maryland Problem Gambling Helpline, 1-800-GAMBLER
-Call 2-1-1 and press 1 if you and/or a loved one are feeling suicidal and at imminent risk
