Gambling addiction test: the PGSI self-assessment

Nine questions about the last 12 months, from the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), the screen used in gambling research and by health services. You’ll get your score, what it means, and where to get help.

Runs in your browser. Nothing you enter is saved or sent.

9 questions · about 2 minutes · nothing is saved

Thinking about the last 12 months…

About the PGSI

The Problem Gambling Severity Index was published in 2001 by Jackie Ferris and Harold Wynne for the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. Its nine questions ask about behavior (chasing losses, borrowing, betting more than you can afford) and consequences (money trouble, stress, guilt, criticism). It’s one of the most widely used gambling screens in population surveys and health services.

Each answer scores 0 (never), 1 (sometimes), 2 (most of the time) or 3 (almost always), for a total between 0 and 27. The standard categories are: 0 no problem gambling, 1–2 low risk, 3–7 moderate risk, 8 or more problem gambling.

If your score is 3 or higher

  • Talk to someone. In the US, call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (NCPG). The helplines below are free and confidential.
  • Exclude yourself. Most sportsbooks and casinos offer self-exclusion; many US states run statewide programs, the UK has GAMSTOP, and Germany has OASIS.
  • Protect your money. Many banks let you block gambling transactions on your card. Hand over card control to someone you trust for a while if that helps.
  • Block the apps and sites. Our guide shows how to block gambling on iPhone.

Questions

What is a good PGSI score?

Zero. A score of 0 means no signs of problem gambling; 1–2 is low risk, 3–7 moderate risk and 8 or more problem gambling.

How accurate is the PGSI?

It’s a validated screening tool used in many countries, but it measures risk, not a diagnosis. A professional assessment is needed to diagnose gambling disorder.

What time period should I think about?

The last 12 months, as in the original questionnaire.

Who can I talk to about my gambling?

In the US, 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738) from the National Council on Problem Gambling. In the UK, the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. In Germany, the free phone line of the BIÖG on 0800 1 37 27 00. More on our responsible use page.

Sources

  1. Ferris, J. & Wynne, H. (2001). The Canadian Problem Gambling Index: Final Report. Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse
  2. National Council on Problem Gambling: Helpline (1-800-MY-RESET)
  3. WHO ICD-11: 6C50 Gambling disorder

General information, not medical or psychological advice. If you’re struggling, talk to a doctor, a therapist or one of the helplines on our responsible use page.

More free tools