Gambling Self-Assessment Tool

This confidential self-assessment tool is based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a validated screening instrument developed through research funded by the Canadian Centre for Substance Use and Addiction. It helps you understand your gambling behavior patterns and identify if gambling may be causing problems in your life.

Why Take This Assessment?

Understanding your relationship with gambling is the first step toward making informed decisions. This tool provides a structured way to reflect on your gambling behaviors over the past 12 months.

🔒 100% Private: Your answers never leave your device. No data is collected or stored.
Important Disclaimer: This tool is for educational purposes only and is not a clinical diagnosis. It cannot replace professional evaluation. If you're concerned about your gambling, please consult a healthcare professional or contact a problem gambling helpline.
Question 1 of 9

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0
out of 27 possible points
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Where Your Score Falls

Non-Problem
0
Low Risk
1-2
Moderate
3-7
Problem
8+
Lower Risk Higher Risk

What This Means For You

Need Someone to Talk To?

The National Problem Gambling Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

1-800-522-4700

Chat also available at ncpgambling.org

Your Response Summary

About the PGSI

The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) was developed by researchers at the Canadian Centre for Substance Use and Addiction as part of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index. It's one of the most widely used and validated screening tools for problem gambling worldwide.

According to research published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, the PGSI demonstrates strong reliability and validity across diverse populations. It assesses gambling behavior and consequences over the past 12 months.

Understanding the Risk Categories

Non-Problem Gambling (Score: 0)

No indicators of problem gambling. Gambling, if any, is for entertainment within affordable limits.

Low-Risk Gambling (Score: 1-2)

Few or no negative consequences from gambling, but some behaviors that could be concerning if they escalate.

Moderate-Risk Gambling (Score: 3-7)

Some negative consequences and behaviors associated with problem gambling. Monitoring recommended.

Problem Gambling (Score: 8+)

Gambling behavior that leads to negative consequences and possible loss of control. Professional support recommended.

Did You Know? According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately 2-3% of the U.S. population experiences problem gambling, while another 4-6% are considered at-risk gamblers. Early recognition of warning signs is one of the most effective ways to prevent gambling from becoming a serious problem.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Beyond the PGSI questions, the American Psychiatric Association identifies gambling disorder as a recognized behavioral addiction. Common warning signs include:

  • Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling, reliving past experiences, or planning future sessions
  • Tolerance: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve excitement
  • Loss of control: Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
  • Withdrawal: Restlessness or irritability when attempting to reduce gambling
  • Escape: Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression
  • Chasing losses: After losing money, returning to try to "break even" (the phenomenon our Loss Recovery Calculator demonstrates is mathematically futile)
  • Lying: Concealing the extent of gambling involvement from family, therapists, or others
  • Jeopardizing relationships: Risking or losing significant relationships, jobs, or opportunities due to gambling
  • Financial bailouts: Relying on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling

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Remember: This self-assessment is for educational awareness only. It is not a diagnosis and cannot replace professional evaluation. Gambling problems are treatable, and help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-522-4700. All calls are confidential.