Gambling Self-Assessment Tool
A free, anonymous screening tool based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Evaluate your gambling behavior and understand your risk level with evidence-based questions used by researchers worldwide.
⚠ Important Notice
This is a screening tool, not a clinical diagnosis. If you are concerned about your gambling behavior, please speak with a healthcare professional or contact a gambling support service. This assessment provides general guidance only and should not replace professional evaluation or treatment.
About This Assessment
This self-assessment is based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a standardized screening instrument developed by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and validated through extensive research. It is widely used by healthcare professionals and researchers internationally to identify gambling-related problems.
All responses are processed locally in your browser. No data is stored, transmitted, or collected. Your privacy is completely protected.
Think about your gambling behavior over the past 12 months when answering these questions.
Your Assessment Results
PGSI Risk Categories
The Problem Gambling Severity Index classifies gambling behavior into four categories based on total score:
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. These organizations provide free, confidential support:
European Resources
Gambling Therapy - Free online support available in multiple languages
Self-Exclusion
Learn about EU self-exclusion systems to block yourself from gambling
Financial Help
Consider deposit limits and budget controls via our Bankroll Calculator
More Information
Read our guide on Problem Gambling in the EU
Understanding Gambling Self-Assessment
Gambling self-assessment tools are an important first step for individuals who want to evaluate their gambling behavior objectively. These screening instruments help identify patterns of behavior that may indicate gambling-related problems before they escalate into serious issues.
The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) used in this tool was developed specifically to assess gambling problems in the general population. Unlike clinical diagnostic tools designed for treatment settings, the PGSI is intended for self-assessment and population surveys, making it ideal for individuals wanting to understand their own gambling behavior.
What the PGSI Measures
The nine PGSI questions evaluate different aspects of gambling behavior and its consequences:
PGSI Assessment Dimensions
- Financial Impact: Betting beyond means, borrowing to gamble, financial problems
- Behavioral Patterns: Chasing losses, needing larger bets for excitement
- Personal Awareness: Feeling guilty, recognizing potential problems
- Social Impact: Criticism from others, health effects from gambling
Research published in the Journal of Gambling Studies has validated the PGSI across multiple populations and cultures, demonstrating its reliability as a screening instrument. Studies show strong correlation between PGSI scores and other established measures of gambling problems.
Interpreting Your Results
The PGSI categorizes gambling behavior into four risk levels:
- Non-problem Gambling (Score 0): No indicators of gambling problems. Gambling, if it occurs, appears to be recreational and controlled.
- Low-risk Gambling (Score 1-2): Occasional experiences of gambling-related problems. While not severe, some behaviors may warrant monitoring.
- Moderate-risk Gambling (Score 3-7): Experiencing some negative consequences from gambling. Consider seeking advice or implementing protective measures.
- Problem Gambling (Score 8+): Significant gambling-related problems that may require professional support and intervention.
Important Considerations
A low PGSI score does not guarantee absence of gambling problems. Some individuals may underestimate their behavior, and gambling patterns can change over time. Similarly, a high score does not mean gambling addiction is inevitable. It indicates that current behavior patterns are associated with higher risk and that taking action now can prevent escalation.
Responsible Gambling Tools in the EU
European gambling regulators have implemented various player protection measures that complement self-assessment. Understanding these tools can help you take control of your gambling behavior:
- Self-Exclusion Registers: Most EU countries operate national self-exclusion systems that allow individuals to block themselves from gambling.
- Deposit Limits: Licensed operators must allow players to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits.
- Time Limits: Session duration controls help prevent extended gambling sessions.
- Reality Checks: Periodic reminders showing time spent and money wagered during sessions.
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) reports that regulated operators have significantly increased implementation of these player protection tools in recent years, with deposit limits and self-exclusion being the most widely adopted measures.
When to Seek Help
If your self-assessment indicates moderate-risk or problem gambling, or if you have concerns regardless of your score, consider taking these steps:
- Talk to Someone: Share your concerns with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional.
- Contact a Helpline: Free, confidential gambling support is available through services like Gambling Therapy.
- Consider Self-Exclusion: Registering with your country's self-exclusion system provides a safety barrier.
- Set Limits: Use our Bankroll Calculator to establish strict gambling budgets.
- Learn More: Understanding problem gambling statistics and prevention can provide valuable context.
Related Resources
Explore our other tools and guides for comprehensive information on responsible gambling:
- Personal Gambling Limits Calculator - Set appropriate deposit, loss, and time limits based on your income
- Self-Exclusion Systems Across EU Countries - How to register for national self-exclusion programs
- Problem Gambling Statistics and Prevention in the EU - Prevalence data and national strategies
- Bankroll Management Calculator - Set responsible gambling budgets
- Gambling Session Simulator - Understand the mathematics of gambling outcomes
- House Edge Calculator - Learn about expected losses over time
- Gambling Terminology Glossary - Definitions of key terms
⚠ Legal Disclaimer
This self-assessment tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a clinical diagnostic instrument and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical or psychological evaluation. If you are concerned about your gambling behavior, please consult a qualified healthcare professional or contact a gambling support service.
Last Updated: December 2025