Often, the signs don’t become obvious until financial ruin sets in. Whether it’s blackjack or bingo, gambling is a strong industry because the house always wins.Ī gambling addiction can also be difficult to recognize, not just to the addict, but family and friends take longer to catch on as well. That of course, can lead to financial destitution. Gambling is one of the most crafty or subtle vices we can face because it gives the illusion of easy money. This is why the Canada Safety Council treats problem gambling as a community safety matter and crime prevention issue. These effects are also detrimental to the addicts' loved ones. Problem gambling leads to a variety of serious personal and professional problems including depression, bankruptcy, domestic abuse, fraud, theft, and homelessness. To dream of the fancy new house you’ll buy, all the places you’d travel to… There’s a difference, however, between buying the occasional lottery ticket and cashing your paycheck at the casino. It’s fun to join the office lottery pool once in a while or getting some scratch tickets for your birthday.