Gambling Self-Assessment
Please read before you begin
This self-assessment is a private reflection tool designed to help you understand whether gambling may be affecting your life. Gambling-related harm does not always start in obvious ways. It often develops gradually, through stress, secrecy, financial pressure, and emotional strain.
Answer the following questions honestly using Yes or No. There are no right or wrong answers. The purpose of this assessment is awareness, not judgement.
Gambling Self-Assessment Questions
Gambling Behaviour
1. Do you gamble longer or spend more money than you planned?
2. Have you tried to stop or cut down on gambling but failed?
3. Do you think about gambling even when you are not gambling?
4. Do you gamble to escape stress, sadness, boredom, or emotional pain?
5. Do you feel restless, irritable, or anxious when you try not to gamble?
Financial Impact
6. Have you used money meant for essentials (rent, food, transport, school fees) to gamble?
7. Have you borrowed money, taken loans, or owed people because of gambling?
8. Have you hidden debts or lied about your financial situation due to gambling?
9. Do you gamble hoping to recover losses or fix financial problems?
10. Has gambling caused ongoing financial pressure or fear?
Relationships & Trust
11. Have you lied to family, friends, or a partner about your gambling?
12. Has gambling caused conflict or loss of trust in your relationships?
13. Have people close to you expressed concern about your gambling?
14. Have you avoided people or situations because of gambling-related shame?
15. Has gambling affected your role as a partner, parent, or family member?
Work, Mental Health & Wellbeing
16. Has gambling affected your work, studies, or daily responsibilities?
17. Do you feel guilt, shame, or regret after gambling?
18. Have you felt depressed, hopeless, or overwhelmed because of gambling?
19. Have you continued gambling despite serious personal consequences?
20. Do you feel gambling is starting to control you rather than the other way around?
Scoring & What Your Results Mean
Add up all your Yes answers to get your total score.
0–2 YES answers | Low Concern
Gambling does not currently appear to be causing significant harm in your life.
Staying aware and informed helps prevent future harm.
3–6 YES answers | Emerging Concern
Gambling may be starting to affect certain areas of your life.
Early awareness can prevent deeper financial, emotional, and relationship difficulties.
7–11 YES answers | Significant Concern
Gambling is likely having a noticeable negative impact on your wellbeing, finances, or relationships.
Support at this stage can help you regain control and reduce further harm.
12–16 YES answers | High Concern
Gambling is likely causing serious and ongoing difficulties in your life.
Many people at this stage benefit greatly from counselling and structured support.
17–20 YES answers | Critical Concern
Gambling may be controlling major areas of your life.
Help is strongly recommended. Recovery is possible, and support can help restore stability and hope.
Next Steps
If this assessment raised concerns, please know this:
Gambling related harm thrives in secrecy. Change begins with honesty and support.
GamAid Zambia provides confidential counselling, peer support, and financial guidance for individuals and families affected by gambling related harm.
Get Support
WhatsApp or call: +260 767 923 704
Important Disclaimer
This self-assessment is an educational screening tool and does not provide a clinical diagnosis. It is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or psychiatric assessment or treatment.