The term "addiction" was previously applied exclusively to chemicals such as alcohol, drugs, or nicotine. With recent research on the brain and its processes, we now understand that many behaviors can become as chemically addictive as a substance. Gambling can be such an addiction, which is sometimes referred to as the hidden illness as there is no visible physical symptom.1

About 4% to 6% of gamblers become pathological gamblers. This is considered a devastating illness that negatively affects gamblers and people with whom they built a relationship (family, friends, colleagues, etc.).2
Current estimates suggest that three percent of the adult population will experience a serious problem with gambling that will result in significant debt, family disruption, job losses, criminal activity or suicide.2