Because gambling and gambling-related activities are frequently carried out during work hours, the workplace is used as a shield to hide the problem gambling from family members. This leaves managers and co-workers as the first line of defence.

The challenge is to identify those individuals who may be moving from recreational gambling to problem gambling. It is important that all employers and employees develop a greater awareness of the signs associated to a gambling problem.

The effects of a gambling problem almost always spill over into the workplace. This occurs through either the gambler or a family member who is living with the effects of a gambling problem.

The workplace is primarily affected through lost time, lost productivity and in desperate situations the gambler may resort to theft.

Individuals with gambling problems become completely pre-occupied with gambling. The workday is often spent either, in the act of gambling, planning the next gambling opportunity, or plotting to get money for gambling.

Family members also become pre-occupied with gambling, worrying about finances and holding the family together. There are feelings of anger, frustration, resentment, isolation and desperation. Family members, (spouses, children, parents) feel like their entire life, all their thoughts and feelings are consumed by the gambling problems they face.

As a result of lost time, a company's productivity is often damaged. The gambler becomes unreliable, misses project deadlines and important meetings and produces inferior quality work.

Physical and emotional health problems associated with excessive gambling can further diminish work performance and attendance. Depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, or stress-related illnesses can surface in individuals with gambling problems. Family members can often have similar health problems.

Suicide and attempted suicide rates are high among individuals with gambling problems. Family members under stress are also at risk of suicide. The emotional, financial or legal problems often become so severe that for some people suicide looks like the only "way out".

Employees with severe problems may commit theft, fraud or embezzlement.

Money is the gambler's key to action. Once all legitimate methods to obtain cash are exhausted, the gambler, in desperation, may resort to fraud or theft to acquire cash.

The workplace becomes a primary avenue for the gambler to illegally finance their gambling. Gamblers do not see the unauthorized taking of company money as stealing.

They see it as "borrowing money" and plan to replace it when they win.

You can express your concerns in a caring and supportive manner. Do not diagnose the problem or tell the individual what to do.

These tips may help you:

Be clear, non-judgemental and speak only for yourself.
I've been noticing changes in your work, and I am worried about you.

Use work-related observations.
I see you coming in very late from lunch ever day, too distracted to work all afternoon.

Be positive.
Your work is usually so good, and you always meet your deadlines.

Explain how the problem affects you.
I had to reassign two of your projects, because you missed three deadlines.

Be clear about your position.
Everyone is stretched to the limit, I need you to pull your weight.

Respect personal boundaries.
I don't want to pry into your life, but I had to let you know I am concerned. I would be happy to talk to you about anything that is troubling you.

Provide information, not advice.
Here is some information about available problem gambling resources. Another resource available to you is our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) professional, here is their name and number.

Be prepared for denial or a hostile reaction.
It must be uncomfortable to hear this. It's difficult for me to bring it up, but I am concerned about you.

(Adapted from "Are you concerned about a co-worker's gambling?" Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission.)