Gambling Self-Assessment

It isn’t always easy to tell when gambling has moved from a hobby to a problem. This short self-assessment can help you reflect on your habits honestly and privately.

The questions are adapted from the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), one of the most widely used screening tools for gambling problems. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you understand your level of risk and whether it might be time to make changes or seek support.

How to Take the Self-Assessment

Think about the past 12 months. For each question, choose the answer that fits best, and note the points:

• Never = 0 points
• Sometimes = 1 point
• Most of the time = 2 points
• Almost always = 3 points

Be as honest as you can. Nobody else will see your answers.

The Questions

In the past 12 months, how often have you:

1. Bet more than you could really afford to lose?
2. Needed to gamble with larger amounts of money to get the same feeling of excitement?
3. Gone back another day to try to win back the money you lost?
4. Borrowed money or sold anything to get money to gamble?
5. Felt that you might have a problem with gambling?
6. Felt that gambling has caused you health problems, including stress or anxiety?
7. Had people criticize your betting, or tell you that you had a gambling problem, whether or not you thought it was true?
8. Felt that your gambling has caused financial problems for you or your household?
9. Felt guilty about the way you gamble, or what happens when you gamble?

Add up your points to get your total score.

What Your Score Means

0 points: No Identified Problems

Your answers suggest gambling isn’t currently causing you problems. Keep using limits and treating gambling as entertainment.

1–2 points: Low Risk

You may be experiencing a low level of problems. It’s a good time to review your habits, set or lower limits, and keep an eye on any changes.

3–7 points: Moderate Risk

Your gambling may be leading to some negative consequences. Consider taking a break, tightening your limits, and talking to someone. Calling or texting 1-800-GAMBLER is free and confidential.

8 or more points: Problem Gambling

Your answers suggest gambling is causing significant problems. You don’t have to deal with this alone. Please reach out for support. Help works, and it’s free.

What to Do Next

Whatever Your Score

• Set deposit and time limits on every account. See our guide to setting gambling limits.
• Review your activity statements to see how much you’ve really spent.
• Avoid gambling when stressed, upset or drinking.

If You Scored 3 or More

• Take a break, such as our 30-day gambling reset.
• Consider self-exclusion and blocking software.
• Talk to someone you trust.
• Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER for confidential support.

If You’re Worried About Someone Else

You can’t take this assessment for someone else, but the questions can help you think about what you’ve noticed. See our page on help for family and friends.

Where to Get Help

• National Problem Gambling Helpline: call or text 1-800-GAMBLER
• National Council on Problem Gambling: ncpgambling.org
• Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this self-assessment a diagnosis?

No. It’s a screening tool to help you reflect on your gambling. Only a qualified professional can diagnose gambling disorder.

How often should I take it?

Every few months is a good habit, or any time you notice changes in how you gamble.

Is my information private?

Yes. This self-assessment doesn’t collect or store your answers.

What if my score is high?

Please reach out for support. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER for free, confidential help, 24/7.